Liberian President Apologizes for Civil War Atrocities, Renews War Crimes Court Mandate

Edited by: Татьяна Гуринович

On July 5, 2025, Liberian President Joseph Boakai issued a formal state apology to the Liberian people for the atrocities committed during the country's civil wars (1989-2003) in Monrovia. The wars resulted in approximately 250,000 deaths.

President Boakai acknowledged the impact of the civil wars, emphasizing the government's commitment to preventing future tragedies. He also renewed the mandate of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court and increased its budget to $2 million.

This follows the government's efforts to address past injustices, including the establishment of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommended a war crimes court, but implementation has faced delays.

Sources

  • JusticeInfo - Fondation Hirondelle

  • Human Rights Watch: Liberia Renews Mandate to Establish War Crimes Court

  • FrontPageAfrica: Liberia Renews Mandate for War Crimes Court Office with Increased Budget

  • BBC News: Liberia's President Joseph Boakai to Set Up First War Crimes Court

Did you find an error or inaccuracy?

We will consider your comments as soon as possible.