Liberia

The Carter Center currently works to strengthen the rule of law in Liberia, partnering with grassroots civil society organizations to increase access to justice in underserved rural communities. The Center also supports national goals to improve health services. In 1997, 2005, and 2011, the Center observed Liberia's national elections. The Carter Center implemented an electoral assistance program in the country's 2005 elections with the support of the Carter Centre U.K.

Waging Peace

At the invitation of  President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the Center is helping the country rebuild  its legal infrastructure, which is a prerequisite for lasting peace and democratic progress. We work in partnership with leaders at the highest levels of government as well as those in the most remote areas of Liberia and act as a communication bridge between these groups.

In underserved rural areas, local groups are educating people about new laws and legal means for resolving disputes. One of our local partners is a drama club performing skits that explain the how-tos of access to justice. They are dispelling traditional practices of justice, such as "trial by ordeal," and teaching people about new rights and laws, and means to resolve disputes.  There is an emphasis on empowering traditionally marginalized groups, such as indigenous people, women, and youth, who historically have had little role in the political and legal processes that have shaped the nation.

The Center also is supporting the Ministry of Justice in developing a Gender Crimes Unit in the Solicitor General's Office; helping to expand training of lawyers, police, and other key legal administrators; and supporting the Arthur Grimes School of Law by assisting with curriculum development and other inputs.

Read full text on the Carter Center's peace work in Liberia >

Fighting Disease

Although the decades-long civil conflict in Liberia ended in 2003, the psychological impact of the war has contributed to a mental health crisis in the post-conflict nation. Less than 1 percent of the Liberian population has access to appropriate mental health care, although the need for these services is much greater.

Read full text on the Carter Center's health work in Liberia >