Summit for Democracy in Liberia: A Call for Sustainable Governance and Inclusion

The second Summit for Democracy in Liberia focused on sustainable governance and inclusion. Keynote speaker H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf highlighted economic challenges, while participants, including diplomats and UN representatives, discussed accountability, human rights, and women’s representation in politics. Policy recommendations emerged to enhance governance structures and promote continuous dialogue among stakeholders.

The second Summit for Democracy, held in Monrovia on March 5, 2025, featured keynote speaker H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia. She emphasized the current economic challenges and the need for Liberians to draw strength from their history of resilience and courage while overcoming adversity. Sirleaf cautioned against weakening legislative oversight to avoid self-serving practices that may undermine national interests.

Funded by the Embassy of Sweden in Liberia, the summit focused on “Exploring Pathways for Sustainable Democracy and Inclusive Development in Liberia,” and included technical support from UNDP and Naymote. Sweden’s Ambassador, Mr. Karl Backéus, hailed Sweden’s ongoing commitment to supporting Liberia in democracy, human rights, and governance.

The event attracted approximately 120 participants from ten counties in Liberia, including Lofa, Nimba, and Montserrado. A significant panel discussion examined public sector governance and accountability, as well as the importance of protecting human rights and ensuring justice. Panelist Cllr Moriah Yeakula-Korkpor urged the government to maintain integrity in its justice processes without interference.

UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Dia stressed that a robust democracy relies on the rule of law, emphasizing the need for justice to be accessible for all, particularly marginalized groups. He also pointed out the challenges women and rural communities face in accessing justice, advocating for strengthened legal frameworks and civic awareness.

Irish Ambassador Gerald Considine underscored the importance of empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities in fostering an inclusive democracy. He encouraged young leaders to champion these ideals as Liberia works toward democratic stability. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Christine Umutoni, expressed support for Liberia’s efforts towards transparency and accountability.

Discussions included women’s representation in politics, where UN Women Representative Comfort Lamptey called for political parties to enhance their structures to support women’s candidacy. Panelist Esther S. Davis Yango echoed this sentiment, stating that empowering women is vital for Liberia’s future.

Delegates at the summit developed policy recommendations aimed at improving public governance, promoting human rights, ensuring justice, and advocating for women’s political participation. They also proposed the establishment of a Community of Practice (CoP) to foster dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders. A resolution was drafted to guide government action towards achieving the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) for 2025-2029. Melvin L. Harding of the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled praised the summit as an informative initiative supported by generous donors.

The Summit for Democracy highlighted crucial discussions concerning Liberia’s democratic processes, with a particular focus on sustainable governance, accountability, and women’s representation. Key figures emphasized the need for continued support from international partners, alongside actionable strategies to challenge systemic issues within public governance. The collaborative effort among delegates, diplomatic representatives, and civil society is aimed at fostering a more inclusive and just political landscape for all Liberians. Ultimately, the summit’s outcomes seek to influence the government’s commitment to the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development.

Original Source: www.undp.org