Liberian President Establishes War Crimes Court to Bring Justice and Healing

Liberian President Joseph Boakai has signed an executive order to establish the country's first war crimes court, over 20 years after the end of the country's 14-year civil war that claimed the lives of approximately 250,000 people.

Why this matters: The establishment of a war crimes court in Liberia sets a precedent for holding accountable those responsible for atrocities committed during the country's devastating civil wars, and serves as a model for other countries seeking to address their own histories of violence and human rights abuses. This move could have far-reaching implications for the pursuit of justice and reconciliation in post-conflict societies around the world.

During his swearing-in speech in January, President Boakai announced his government's intention to explore the possibility of opening a "war and economic crimes court" to hold accountable those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The president's decision comes after lawmakers endorsed the establishment of the court last month.

Boakai stated that the court would help bring "justice and closure to the scars and memories of our tragic and violent misadventure." He emphasized that "for peace and harmony to have a chance to prevail, justice and healing must perfect the groundwork."

The creation of the court was one of Boakai's campaign promises, and it has been hailed as a "crucial step for peace, justice, reconciliation and sustainable development in Liberia" by Swedish Ambassador to Liberia, Urban Sjostrom. The newly established court will be responsible for prosecuting those most responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed between 1989 and 2003.

Liberia's back-to-back civil wars were characterized by widespread mass killings, torture, and sexual violence. Human rights groups have reported horrific atrocities, including gang rapes of girls and the recruitment of children to fight after witnessing the killing of their parents. The United Nations estimates that 61.4% to 77.4% of women and girls in Liberia were raped during the conflict.

A Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommended the establishment of a war crimes tribunal in 2009, but the process has faced opposition from accused warlords who remain influential in their communities. Some Liberians have also opposed the court's creation, arguing it may reopen old wounds and undermine an existing amnesty law that helped end the fighting.

The United States and European Union have welcomed the move, with the US offering to assist Liberia in the process. Beth Van Schaack, the U.S. envoy for global criminal justice, said the U.S. would fund the court if it was set up appropriately. ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) has also praised the Liberian government's efforts, calling for a national effort to make the initiative a success.

While no trials have taken place within Liberia, certain perpetrators have faced justice in foreign jurisdictions. Former Liberian President Charles Taylor is serving a 50-year sentence in the United Kingdom for war crimes committed during the Sierra Leone conflict. The establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court marks a significant step towards bringing justice and accountability for atrocities committed during Liberia's devastating civil wars.

Key Takeaways

• Liberian President Joseph Boakai signs executive order to establish war crimes court.
• Court aims to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities during 14-year civil war.
• Move sets precedent for post-conflict societies seeking justice and reconciliation.
• Court will prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity committed between 1989 and 2003.
• US, EU, and ECOWAS welcome the move, offering assistance and support.