New Rights Dialogue Demands Urgent Reform
Monrovia, Liberia – A two-day multi-stakeholder dialogue organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has exposed deep-rooted barriers preventing thousands of informal workers in Liberia from accessing justice, prompting urgent calls for sweeping reforms and coordinated action.
The engagement, which took place from April 22–23, brought together members from the informal sector, government institutions, civil society organizations, and foreign partners to address long-standing legal and human rights issues that affect workers outside the formal economy.
Participants presented a concerning image throughout the event: vulnerable workers are still excluded from justice systems designed to protect them due to costly legal fees, drawn-out court procedures, and general ignorance.
Discussions, however, highlighted the fact that many informal workers are essentially invisible in the enforcement of rights, despite the existence of frameworks. The discussion reviewed Liberia’s current judicial system and looked at important international, regional, and national legal tools and accountability procedures.
The Ministry of Justice’s Alternative Dispute Resolution system, the Liberia National Bar Association, and the Independent National Human Rights Commission were all mentioned as crucial but underutilised channels for redress.
Participants’ shared lived experiences and panel discussions demonstrated how systemic limitations still impede access to justice. The result of these discussions was a roadmap for 2026 that aims to create a judicial system that is more inclusive and people-centered.
The establishment of a multi-stakeholder coordination organization, increased public awareness of the Decent Work Act, increased legal aid services, and focused capacity-building programs to provide informal workers with understanding of their rights are some of the main recommendations.
The result shows that reform is gaining traction, but it also serves as a clear reminder that Liberia’s informal labour force will continue to operate on the periphery of justice in the absence of intentional effort.
Reported by: Prince Saah
