By Grace Q. Bryant
The Political Office of the Embassy of the United States of America reported that in October 2022, Liberia implemented one of the strictest anti-human trafficking laws in Africa that other countries have modeled their laws after Liberia’s, which is a testament to the credibility of Liberia’s efforts.
Juan D. Martinez made the remarks at the launch of the findings and recommendations on the Human Rights Situation Reports, 2023 by the Independent Human Rights Commission (INCHR).
“This has led to Liberia moving from the lowest to leading the fight against human trafficking. Liberia’s efforts were also recognized in the War and Economics Court establishment, which has gained momentum since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report in 2009,” he stressed.
He maintained that these reports are not solely meant to criticize but also to support and encourage; however, it would be unfair not to acknowledge the work of the Commission.
“I am pleased to see the establishment of an independent National Commission for Immigrants here in Liberia, which plays a crucial role in oversight, monitoring, and holding accountable those in power. This is not only important for Liberia but also for many countries around the world,” he averred.
He then said, “I express my gratitude to the Commission for its work in ensuring that those in power are held accountable, which has not always been the case historically. Please continue the great work that you do.”
He emphasized that it is the responsibility of governments to take care of their people, and not the international community’s responsibility, therefore, relying on the international donor community is not a viable and sustainable solution.
According to him, the Government of Liberia, regardless of which political party is in power, must take up the responsibility to fund and support integrity institutions like INCHR.
“I would like to, therefore, call upon the Government of Liberia to step up and take responsibility,” he stressed.
Martinez said these reports are also meant to highlight the positive steps that Liberia has taken in certain areas.
The Deputy Representatives for Program, UNICEF, Ahmadu CIsse, said the inclusion signifies the reaffirmation of children as distinct, independent rights holders, and ensures accountability for violations of children’s rights wherever they occur.
“I would like to seize this moment to express my gratitude to all those who have contributed to the preparation of this report, for the first time, a section dedicated to Child Rights Issues has been included,” he disclosed.
He furthered by ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Liberia, along with other countries, and recognized that all children possess inalienable rights.
He noted that the Liberian Government pledged and committed to ensuring the protection and upholding of these rights. However, as stated by UNICEF’s Executive Director on World’s Children Day 2023, “Children live in a world that is increasingly hostile to their rights.”
“Despite Liberia making significant strides over the past two decades in strengthening its rule of law system and institutions through a comprehensive reform of its legislative and policy framework for the promotion and protection of human rights and children’s rights, there is still much work to be done,” he emphasized.
He expressed that the INCHR plays a pivotal role in addressing discrimination and inequality and ensuring access to justice for all.
“The effective realization of children’s rights necessitates that children have access to complaint procedures and remedies when their rights have been violated,” he concluded.
He emphasized that the days of blank or open check books has come to a close; as such, it is binding on the government, regardless of any political party, to take responsibility for its citizens.
He has, however, admitted to the fact that the Liberian Government still has a long way to go based on the reports submitted by the International Commission on Human Rights.
Juan Martinez disclosed that the Liberian Government’s recent decision in endorsing the War and Economic Crimes Court is a clear manifestation that Liberia is finally getting to a point where the culture of impunity is drawing to a close.
