Monrovia – The Youth Network for Positive Change (YOUNETPO) has conducted a one-day training session aimed at strengthening the capacity of Liberia’s joint security forces on transitional justice.
By Francis G. Boayue
The training targeted officers from the Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service, and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency.
Held on Wednesday at the War and Economic Crimes Court office in Monrovia, the session is part of a broader effort to enhance the role of security institutions in Liberia’s transitional justice and reconciliation process.
Leo Tiah, Executive Director of YOUNETPO, said the training focused on equipping officers with knowledge of transitional justice mechanisms, principles, and challenges.
“The training specifically aimed to strengthen the capacity of Liberia’s joint security forces to engage with and contribute to an inclusive transitional justice process,” Tiah said. “By equipping officers with a deeper understanding, we are fostering an environment where accountability and national healing can go hand in hand.”
He emphasized the importance of involving security forces in reconciliation and accountability processes, particularly as Liberia continues to pursue justice for war-era crimes and human rights violations.
According to Tiah, security institutions like the Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service, and Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency have a critical role to play in any future implementation of a war and economic crimes court.
“These agencies are not only law enforcers; they are key players in ensuring justice and reconciliation,” he said. “Their understanding of transitional justice is essential to the successful implementation of national peacebuilding efforts.”
The training was funded by the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund of the United Nations and Conciliation Resources. Both organizations support peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery, with a focus on inclusive participation and conflict prevention.
