Monrovia – The Center for Democratic Governance convened a significant conference on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at the Corina Hotel, bringing together various partners and donors to discuss pressing issues impacting Liberia. The event focused on the findings of the Afrobarometer Round 10 survey, which examined key areas such as climate change, economic conditions, migration, and international relations, all through the lens of Liberians’ perspectives on their future.
By: Patience M. Jones, contributing writer
Mr. Elkanah Y. Taylor, the Program Coordinator at the Center, presented a comprehensive overview of the survey’s methodology and findings, emphasizing the nuanced views of Liberians regarding their nation’s trajectory. The survey revealed a stark division among citizens: 50% believe Liberia is on the right path, while an equal percentage feels the opposite. Economic assessments were similarly polarized, with 48% deeming the situation poor compared to 45% who view it favorably. Personal living conditions reflect this ambivalence, as 46% of respondents reported feeling dissatisfied, while an equal percentage expressed contentment. Notably, optimism about economic improvement over the next year emerged, with 61% anticipating positive changes and a marked uptick in the government’s performance ratings.
Taylor underscored the overwhelming rejection of authoritarian governance among Liberians, with significant majorities advocating for democratic principles. The survey indicated that 79% of local government councilors and 88% of members of parliament are perceived as insufficiently engaged with the populace. Additionally, a staggering 66% of participants believe that officials who commit crimes rarely face consequences, and 58% express concerns about political interference undermining judicial fairness.
Exploring external influences, the survey highlighted perceptions of foreign economic engagement, revealing that 68% of respondents believe China plays a significant role in Liberia’s economy. In contrast, a substantial 86% hold favorable views of American influence, while 79% and 58% respectively view China’s and India’s impacts positively. However, only 39% extend similar sentiments towards Russia. Furthermore, over three-quarters of participants recognize the positive roles of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) in Liberia’s political landscape, emphasizing the need for continued diplomatic neutrality regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The survey also delved into climate change awareness, with 68% of Liberians confirming their knowledge of the issue. Alarmingly, 71% believe that climate change is exacerbating living conditions in Liberia. A strong consensus emerged, with 82% insisting that both the government and wealthier nations must prioritize action against climate change. Support for various governmental policies to combat environmental challenges is robust, with 81% advocating for investments in renewable energy and infrastructure, among other initiatives.
In terms of women’s rights and health autonomy, the survey revealed that 78% of Liberians believe women should have the freedom to choose when to marry and have children. Additionally, 77% support the continuation of education for pregnant girls. Notably, over half of respondents (61%) deem abortion justifiable under certain circumstances, including threats to the mother’s health and pregnancies resulting from rape.
Migration remains a pressing concern, with 77% of respondents contemplating leaving Liberia—a sentiment particularly pronounced among the educated and employed. Economic opportunities emerged as the primary motivation for potential emigration, with North America being the favored destination for 52% of those considering leaving.
The survey results paint a complex picture of Liberia’s current landscape, highlighting the urgent need for responsive policies that address citizens’ economic, social, and environmental concerns, while fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.
