Open Letter to the People of Liberia
From U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack
March 212024- In early March, I concluded my second visit to Liberia—it was a visit filled with hope and inspiration. Like so many Liberians, I—along with the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, my colleagues here in Washington, and others within the international community—was very pleased to see President Boakai’s announcement in his inaugural address that he would begin the process of creating a War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia. Liberians have waited far too long to see justice for the horrific abuses they suffered in the country’s two civil wars, despite recommendations from your Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). I applaud President Boakai for making justice such a priority in the early days of his administration.
It was also thrilling to see a resolution in support of the War and Economic Crimes Court pass with strong support in the House. Congratulations to the Speaker of the House and other Representatives for taking steps to implement the very important and welcome recommendations of the 2009 Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Now, over to the Senate!
As the Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, I see on a daily basis around the world how entrenched impunity for atrocities harms not only the direct victims of those crimes, but all of society and the very fabric of a nation. When there is no accountability for the worst crimes known to humankind, it undermines the rule of law and contributes to corruption and lawlessness. In so many ways, there can be no true and lasting peace without justice.
When I again spoke on Radio OK FM during my visit, I was asked if I would be disappointed if Liberia did not build a War and Economic Crimes Court before my next visit. Of course, I would like to see a war crimes court in Liberia, but it is not my opinion that matters. The imagined Court emerged from the recommendations of your TRC with a goal of bringing real justice for Liberians. This is your court and your history.
This is why I encourage everyone reading this to let your voices be heard on this issue. Speak up in your communities. Write, call, or reach out to your representatives and local leaders and tell them how you feel. If you want to see justice, let your leadership know how impunity affects you, your family, and your community. The bright future of Liberia is in your hands—your voices must be heard. The United States stands with you and is ready to support you in this endeavor.
The United States will also be watching closely to make sure that those advocating for justice do not face threats to their safety and that all Liberians can step forward and speak about this effort without fear of intimidation or retribution. Victims and witnesses must play a central role in the work of the future Court, and they must be able to do so freely and safely.
I am so excited to be your partner in this journey. I had a wonderful visit to Liberia, and I cannot wait for my next one—when I hope I will be able to help you welcome the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for all Liberians. Until next time!
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Thank you so kindly Ambassador At-Large.
I too support the “War and Economy Crime Court” establishment in Liberia because my father is a victim of the war who got seriously injured by soldiers of the war in 1994.
This delayed our education as children in the home thereby leaving 8 of my brothers and sisters uneducated today.
This has also brought extra economy burden on me to take care of my injured father health, feeding, shelter and all other cost of living something that has obstructed my educational journey also due to the fact that I need to cater to my father Who is a war victim, and also completely disabled.
However, my burning concern is: “what will be allocated as personal benefits for war victims like us? And what will the establishment of the court offer war victims in general?
Thank you.
Thank you so kindly Ambassador At-Large.
I too support the “War and Economy Crime Court” establishment in Liberia because my father is a victim of the war who got seriously injured by soldiers of the war in 1994.
This delayed our education as children in the home thereby leaving 8 of my brothers and sisters uneducated today.
This has also brought extra economy burden on me to take care of my injured father health, feeding, shelter and all other cost of living something that has obstructed my educational journey also due to the fact that I need to cater to my father Who is a war victim, and also completely disabled.
However, my burning concern is: “what will be allocated as personal benefits for war victims like us? And what will the establishment of the court offer war victims in general?
Thank you.
We know how this country looks. We know it to be even better prior to an after world war two. Impunity is cautioned when mentioned in the ten commandments. There is no set punishment that makes adultery, killing, and stealing better than the rest of God’s orders. It is human beings who give consequences to holy law mandates.
The point at mamba point is that there is a limit.
Which side will the U.S. be on during court proceedings? All of the rebels living sides, the dead rebels sides? Or the soldiers dead and living sides? Liberian people need no more war.
Not refusing this at-large interest. Those Liberians who want to welcome envoys have their own decisions. But she cannot come to my premise or personal property until she has helped to solve the mosquito coming from the drainage her air and sea travel dump in our shores. She has to also solve the drinking water problem. No clean water to even take bath with even at her own Embassy. Inspect conditions of Liberians living in her country as well. What does she think about self dependability on growing food. What can she say about peace and stability? Review Psalm 218:22., Recovery of our currencies flowing in the hands of and being kept by her comrades? For instance, our seven corners. The Firestone past 99 years rubber money that has the tapered picture on it. The container money some of which are in the cost of confinement of some of her lawmakers and rich English European investors they little or nothing for all set to exchange to U.S.D. Is this the money she and her colleagues will rush use to establish here? This is a local issue. It is not international. We have courts in Liberia also for killing and stealing. Jesus is coming to judge the living and the dead. God is our Judge. We do not depend on your judgemental schedule or time to decide our cases. We might have 3 branches as the United States of America and some other nations, yet our secret and traditional branches not electors predicated as they are like yours. God is our Judge. We should take care of our essentials first and recovery after a long fight, restore the struggle and structures with contemporary development before helping Christ prosecute the living and the dead. Read Isaiah 33:22.
Best of luck
Not refusing this at-large interest. Those Liberians who want to welcome envoys have their own decisions. But she cannot come to my premise or personal property until she has helped to solve the mosquito coming from the drainage her air and sea travel dump in our shores. She has to also solve the drinking water problem. No clean water to even take bath with even at her own Embassy. Inspect conditions of Liberians living in her country as well. What does she think about self dependability on growing food. What can she say about peace and stability? Review Psalm 218:22., Recovery of our currencies flowing in the hands of and being kept by her comrades? For instance, our seven corners. The Firestone past 99 years rubber money that has the tapered picture on it. The container money some of which are in the cost of confinement of some of her lawmakers and rich English European investors they little or nothing for all set to exchange to U.S.D. Is this the money she and her colleagues will rush use to establish here? This is a local issue. It is not international. We have courts in Liberia also for killing and stealing. Jesus is coming to judge the living and the dead. God is our Judge. We do not depend on your judgemental schedule or time to decide our cases. We might have 3 branches as the United States of America and some other nations, yet our secret and traditional branches not electors predicated as they are like yours. God is our Judge. We should take care of our essentials first and recovery after a long fight, restore the struggle and structures with contemporary development before helping Christ prosecute the living and the dead. Read Isaiah 33:22.
Liberian in general really want this court but more of the senators are not willing to support the establishment of war and economics crimes court, because they committed the crimes.
It’s a difficult tasks for us the ordinary citizens
Please Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack, help the country and it’s people in the good end you will be blessed
It very necessary to establish the war and economic court in Liberia so that those who cause horrific crime and sabotage this country economically must be made to pay for their crimes. This will serve as a lesson for the next generation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Youth Movement for Change Stands Firm in Support of the War and Economic Crime Court in Liberia
March 7, 2024, Buchanan, Grand Bassa County – The Youth Movement for Change proudly declares its unwavering support for the establishment of the War and Economic Crime Court in Liberia, recognizing its paramount significance in fostering accountability, justice, and national development.
In a nation that has endured the scars of conflict, it is imperative to address the past with a commitment to truth and justice. The establishment of the War and Economic Crime Court stands as a crucial step towards healing wounds, fostering reconciliation, and upholding the principles of justice.
The Youth Movement for Change believes that a transparent and accountable judicial process is vital for rebuilding trust among citizens and creating an environment conducive to sustainable development. By holding those responsible for war crimes and economic offenses accountable, Liberia can pave the way for a future built on the pillars of justice, equity, and unity.
Furthermore, the court’s establishment sends a powerful message to the international community that Liberia is dedicated to upholding human rights and ensuring that impunity has no place in the country. This, in turn, enhances Liberia’s global standing and attracts investment and partnerships crucial for economic growth and development.
The Youth Movement for Change urges all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the international community, to unite in supporting the War and Economic Crime Court. Together, we can lay the foundation for a just and prosperous Liberia, where the mistakes of the past serve as lessons for a brighter future.
About Youth Movement for Change
The Youth Movement for Change is a dynamic and proactive organization dedicated to advocating for positive transformation and development in Liberia. Comprising passionate young leaders, the movement strives to address pressing issues and contribute to the overall betterment of the nation.
Vasco O. Arcobasi, II
Executive Director
Youth Movement For Change (YMC)