25/09/2024
President Boakai Calls for Justice, Poverty Reduction, and Global Backing for Liberia’s UN Security Council Bid at UNGA 79th Session!
New York, September 25, 2024.
Liberian President, H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has issued a strong call for global cooperation in addressing poverty, promoting justice, and backing Liberia's bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council during his address to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
In his first UNGA speech delivered on Wednesday at the UN Headquarters, President Boakai highlighted Liberia’s ongoing struggle with poverty, despite nearly two decades of peace.
He stressed the critical need for global support in the fight against poverty, which affects more than half of Liberia's population, especially its youth.
"Despite our progress, poverty remains a significant challenge, with over half of our population living below the poverty line," Boakai noted, reaffirming Liberia's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty by 2030.
President Boakai also emphasized Liberia’s commitment to addressing its painful past through the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court.
The creation of this court, a key recommendation from Liberia's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, marks a significant step toward justice for victims of Liberia’s 14-year civil conflict.
On May 2, this year, President Boakai signed Executive Order 131, formally establishing the Office to pursue this transitional justice process.
"Our actions align with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and we seek the support of the United Nations, partners, and stakeholders in the pursuit of justice, peace, and reconciliation," he said.
On Liberia's democratic progress, President Boakai proudly underscored the nation's peaceful transition of power earlier this year—its second peaceful democratic transfer since the end of the civil war.
"We are gradually fostering a democratic culture, ensuring that democracy is here to stay in Liberia. Now it is time for our people to reap the democratic dividends," he remarked.
The Liberian Chief Executive reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law, transparency, and accountability, which are essential for sustaining peace and building a capable state.
Meanwhile, the Liberian President also called on the international community to support Liberia's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in 2026.
He said 'this year’s assembly is a pivotal moment for Liberia's bid to ascend to the African non-permanent seat of the UN Security Council," he said, adding, "We look forward to the support of member states to vote Liberia overwhelmingly to the Security Council, where we can work with other members to promote peace, justice, and security."
