The Republic of Liberia became an IDLO Member Party on 7 May 2019, joining a growing list of now 36 total members.
Liberia’s membership further strengthens the ongoing partnership established in 2015 when IDLO initiated programs in Liberia and opened an office in Monrovia in 2016. The accession of Liberia is a testimony to its commitment to advance the rule of law, especially for the most vulnerable, and to strengthen institutions as the country continues its path towards sustainable development and realizing SDG 16 of the 2030 Agenda.
IDLO’s program portfolio in Liberia focuses on increasing access to justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, combatting trafficking in persons, and institutional capacity building.
To this end, programs are implemented in close collaboration with the judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, the Liberia National Police, the Sexual and Gender-Based Crimes Unit, and the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce.
Notably, IDLO worked with the judiciary to increase the accountability of “Criminal Court E” – the special court established in 2008 to deal exclusively with sexual violence crimes in conflict. IDLO also facilitated the drafting of the National Action Plan Against Trafficking in Persons 2019-2023.
IDLO welcomes Liberia’s membership and looks forward to advancing joint commitments around strengthening the rule of law and promoting access to justice for all.