Monrovia, Liberia – The first set of 17 Liberians was allowed for repatriation after the Cambodian government granted a humanitarian waiver, marking an important step in Liberia’s efforts to repatriate compatriots stranded in Cambodia after weeks of heated diplomatic deliberations. The Republic of Liberia’s Embassy in Beijing declared on Wednesday that Cambodia recognized the Liberians as victims of human trafficking and let their exit despite their status as unlawful residents.
Four of the 17 authorized people are already enrolled in the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), according to the Embassy. Two female migrants departed Cambodia on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 and safely arrived in Monrovia on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, while two male migrants with medical conditions are expected to leave on May 5, 2026.
The remaining individuals in the first batch are still undergoing processing for return. The diplomatic breakthrough followed sustained intervention by the Liberian Embassy, including a formal Note Verbale sent to Cambodian authorities on March 18, 2026, alongside continuous engagement aimed at securing legal clearance for the stranded nationals.
“The Cambodian Government’s decision reflects humanitarian consideration for Liberians who were trafficked and left vulnerable abroad,” the Embassy said in an official press release signed by Press Attaché Gabriel Wleh Mills.
The Embassy also disclosed that it has been working closely with IOM Cambodia to ensure the return process is safe and orderly. Travel tickets have been issued, medical screenings arranged, and airport transfers coordinated, including transit support through Bangkok and Addis Ababa before final arrival in Monrovia.
Liberian authorities are now urging citizens to be vigilant against fake overseas job offers and human trafficking schemes. The Embassy cautioned Liberians to verify foreign employment opportunities through official channels and seek guidance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Liberian diplomatic missions before traveling abroad.
“The Embassy remains committed to securing the return of all remaining stranded Liberians who wish to be repatriated,” the statement emphasized.
The development marks one of the most significant recent diplomatic interventions involving Liberians trapped in Asia under suspected trafficking networks, raising fresh concerns over the growing exploitation of vulnerable job seekers seeking opportunities overseas.
Reported by: Prince Saah
