Liberia’s Political Future

I have learned a great deal about Liberia over the past weeks. A country that I have not studied extensively - an experience common in American schools - I was surprised to find the common history that Liberia and America share. As a mondern state Liberia was founded in 1847 when the Republic of Liberia declared its independence from the American Colonization Society (ACS), becoming the first republic in Africa. After over one hundred years of non-indigenous rule in 1980 there was a coup that removed the rule of the Americo-Liberians, leaving in-place a military regime led by Samuel K. Doe. After nine-years of the Doe regime in power, the country descended into civil war. Civil War Ended when elections were held in 1997 facilitated by the involvement of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West Africa). Charles Taylor was elected in elections that were widely touted as free and fare, though some think not. Taylor served as President until his exile in Nigeria in 2003. Even under the Taylor regime there was still fighting. Other factions opposed his presidency and violently pursued his resignation.

Driving around Monrovia you can’t help but notice the UN's white cars with the UNMIL and UNDP insignia. Peace only came with international intervention in 2003. This peace was followed by a temporary government led by a widely renowned intellectual Amos Sawyer. International intervention and the relative peace and security laid the foundation for National Elections in 2005. Currently there are about 8,000 UN peacekeepers on the ground, which is down from the initial level of 15,000. As many others that I have met, I am left with the question what would Liberia be like with out the UN presence?


Although President Ellen Johnston Sirleaf's election in 2006 and the forward progress that has been made, is reason for optimism, it easy to become overly optimistic. Two important events are going to happen in the near future: elections in September 2011 and UN peacekeeping troops leaving the country. Depending on how the election process works and who is ultimately elected could impact the relations between various political groups. Some fear that UN withdrawal could provide the opportunity for those that have not seen or felt the impact of the governments Poverty Reduction Strategy or do not feel that their interests are represented in the political process to again take up arms - possibly leading to greater conflict.

If Liberia is able to continue building a foundation for a strong future and maintain stability and security through the elections and past the UN withdraw, I am optimistic about their future. But there is still much work to be done and I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be in Liberia and contribute what I can.