Monrovia – A significant majority of Liberians are calling for urgent measures to combat climate change, revealing a pressing need for both local and international intervention. This urgent plea comes to light through a recent survey conducted by Afrobarometer, in collaboration with the Center for Democratic Governance (CDD-Ghana), which underscores the growing awareness and concern among the populace regarding the adverse impacts of climate change on their daily lives.
By: Patience M. Jones, contributing writer
The Afrobarometer survey indicates that approximately 68% of Liberians are cognizant of climate change, with a staggering 71% reporting that it has exacerbated living conditions across the nation. The findings suggest a strong consensus among citizens, with seven out of ten attributing the crisis to human activities. Only 20% believe that natural processes contribute significantly to the situation.
The survey highlights a critical demand for action, with 82% of respondents insisting that both the Liberian government and affluent nations must take immediate steps to mitigate the effects of climate change. Furthermore, an overwhelming 84% of participants feel that wealthier countries bear a moral obligation to assist Liberia in funding its climate response initiatives, regardless of the financial implications.
The Afrobarometer team in Liberia, comprised of skilled researchers from the Center for Democratic Governance, conducted interviews with a representative sample of 1,200 adults between July 30 and August 21, 2024. The results carry a margin of error of +/-3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level, ensuring the reliability of the data collected. This survey is part of a broader series, with previous assessments carried out in Liberia in the years 2008, 2012, 2015, 2018, 2020, and 2022, reflecting a consistent trend in public sentiment towards climate issues.
As Liberia grapples with the realities of climate change, the call for urgent action resonates louder than ever, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to safeguard the future of the nation and its citizens.
