Report

Building Peace on Fragile Foundations: The Liberian Challenge

“This paper provides an overview of the historic and contemporary sources of conflict in Liberia, including those surrounding the ballot box. The following sections highlight some of the specific long-term peacebuilding challenges facing the United Nations Mission in Liberia –specifically: the composition and corruption of the Transitional Government and the marginalization of civil society from the political sphere; the problem of the internally displaced; an incomplete rehabilitation and reintegration process for ex-combatants; and the issue of Charles Taylor. The authors stress the frailty of the Liberian peace process leading up to the elections, and advocate for a redoubling of international efforts and resources to address these highlighted issues.”