MONROVIA – A high-level interagency delegation from the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Global Criminal Justice, Homeland Security Investigations, Department of Justice (U.S. Attorney’s Office, Philadelphia), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will visit Liberia from September 22-24, 2024. The delegation’s mission is to deepen U.S.-Liberian cooperation across the justice sector and bolster Liberia’s efforts to establish the War and Economic Crimes Court.
The visit marks a critical phase in Liberia’s quest for justice, following President Joseph Boakai’s signing of Executive Order #131 in May 2024, which formally established the War and Economic Crimes Court. The court, hailed as a historic step toward addressing the atrocities committed during Liberia’s 14-year civil conflict, seeks to bring closure to the victims of those horrific years and ensure accountability for perpetrators of war crimes and economic offenses.
The U.S. delegation will meet with representatives of the Liberian government, law enforcement, the legal sector, and civil society. Their aim is to build partnerships and exchange expertise in prosecuting complex war and atrocity crimes using trauma-informed and victim-centric approaches. This visit will provide an opportunity for both nations to learn from each other, particularly in the areas of war crimes investigation and victim support.
Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack praised Liberia’s commitment to justice. “We commend Liberia’s resolve to build a War and Economic Crimes Court, and we are proud to send this delegation to support local efforts toward accountability,” said Van Schaack. “We hope this visit marks the beginning of a productive relationship where U.S. and Liberian officials can work together to ensure justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators.”
The delegation brings with it years of experience in investigating and prosecuting war crimes, atrocities, and related offenses. This expertise will be invaluable in helping Liberia navigate the complex legal challenges involved in prosecuting these cases, especially in a way that supports and empowers victims, many of whom continue to bear the scars—both physical and emotional—of the country’s brutal civil war.
President Boakai, in his May address during the signing of the executive order, stressed the importance of justice in achieving national healing. “Liberia cannot move forward without addressing its past,” he said. “The establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court is essential in bringing justice and closure to the many who suffered during our tragic civil conflicts.”
The President also praised the National Legislature for passing a resolution urging the court’s creation and commended the tireless efforts of activists, peace advocates, and victims who have long sought justice. He emphasized that addressing the causes and consequences of Liberia’s violent past is critical to building a peaceful and harmonious future.
“The road to justice and healing will not be easy, but it is necessary,” Boakai remarked. “By confronting the horrors of our past, we take a significant step towards restoring Liberia’s respectability and integrity. This is not about revenge—it’s about ensuring that future generations can live in a Liberia where the rule of law prevails, and impunity has no place.”
The U.S. visit represents a pivotal moment for Liberia, as the country seeks to transition from a legacy of impunity to one where justice is upheld. The delegation’s support will provide critical resources, training, and expertise to ensure the court functions effectively and in accordance with international standards.
President Boakai called on all Liberians to rally behind the establishment of the court, stressing that national unity is key to its success. “It is time to build a reconciled and united Liberia,” he said, urging the people to embrace the national motto: Think Liberia, Love Liberia, Build Liberia.
With this renewed partnership between the U.S. and Liberia, the foundations for justice, reconciliation, and a brighter future are being laid. As the War and Economic Crimes Court moves closer to full implementation, the hope is that Liberia can finally emerge from the shadow of its violent past and chart a new course towards peace and prosperity.
