New York, September 23, 2025 – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has once again appealed to the international community to support Liberia in establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court, stressing that the tribunal is vital for national healing, reconciliation, and the pursuit of justice.
Speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, President Boakai said the court remains a long-standing aspiration of the Liberian people, many of whom still carry the scars of the country’s brutal civil conflict.
“May I now take the opportunity to renew my Government’s request for international support and assistance in establishing the War and Economic Crimes Court, which will further the Liberian people’s aspirations for national healing and reconciliation through justice,” the Liberian leader declared.
The President reminded the world that Liberia’s two decades of peace and three peaceful transitions of power were hard-earned and must be safeguarded through accountability and respect for the rule of law. He stressed that honoring the memory of war victims and addressing the legacies of impunity are crucial steps in ensuring that Liberia never returns to conflict.
Boakai also outlined his administration’s governance reforms, including anti-corruption measures and institutional strengthening, which he said are aligned with the country’s broader ARREST Agenda for inclusive development.
While acknowledging the complexity of setting up such a tribunal, the Liberian leader emphasized that without justice, reconciliation would remain incomplete. He, therefore, urged the United Nations and Liberia’s partners to join hands in delivering a court that meets international standards.
The establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court has long been a controversial but persistent demand from victims, civil society groups, and rights advocates, who believe it is the only way to address atrocities committed during Liberia’s 14-year civil wars.
By elevating the call on the world stage, President Boakai has placed Liberia’s quest for justice and reconciliation at the center of the global human rights agenda.
