Monrovia, Liberia – The next generation in Liberia is taking the lead in promoting justice and peace. In an effort to enable students to spearhead campaigns for transitional justice, human rights, and national reconciliation, the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L), in collaboration with UNICEF, has concluded an innovative three-day Grade School Ambassadorial and Internship Summit.
Students from both public and private schools attended the summit, which took place in Harbel, Margibi County, after similar sessions in Monrovia and Kakata. It aimed to increase young people’s comprehension of Liberia’s post-war legal system, especially the initiatives to create the National Anti-Corruption Court and the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC).
Speaking at the event, Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, Executive Director of OWECC-L, emphasized how important young people are to Liberia’s journey for justice and reconciliation.
He said, “Our mandate is to ensure that everyone, including children, is engaged, consulted, and heard in establishing these courts. Many young Liberians were not part of the war but live with its consequences. They deserve to understand what happened and to help prevent history from repeating itself.”
The youth engagement approach, which is intended to promote inclusivity, intergenerational communication, and civic accountability, is an essential part of Liberia’s transitional justice roadmap, according to the head of OWECCL.
UNICEF Liberia’s Deputy Country Representative, Dr. Amadou Cissé, participated as well and commended the summit for emphasizing civic awareness and youth empowerment.
“The youth of Liberia are not just witnesses to history, they are the architects of its peaceful future. Learn from the past, stand up for those who suffered, and defend a justice system that protects every child’s right,” Dr. Cissé declared.
He reiterated UNICEF’s unwavering support for Liberia’s transitional justice strategy, stating that it is consistent with both UNICEF’s goal to promote inclusive participation and civic education and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Mohammed El-dust Fahnbulleh, speaking on behalf of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR), praised UNICEF and OWECC-L for elevating youth voices in national justice debates. “We must not allow resistance from policymakers to silence the call for justice. Go back to your communities and tell your leaders, you support the court, and you want transparency, fairness, and accountability,” Fahnbulleh said.
Fahnbulleh emphasized that sustained advocacy from young people can help ensure Liberia remains on the path of peace and reconciliation.
The government’s support for the creation of the War and Economic Crimes Court was reiterated by Cllr. Cora Hare Konuwa, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Justice. Cllr. Konuwa, “Many of you were not born during the war, but its effects still shape your lives today. Understanding our past is the key to ensuring such tragedies never occur again.”
She exhorted the students to use their strength and influence which had been abused during the civil war to promote justice, civic engagement, and peace.
Reported by: Prince Saah
