Ireland Reaffirms Support for War Crimes Court, Peacebuilding in Liberia

Monrovia, June 24, 2026 – Ireland has reaffirmed its support for Liberia’s efforts to advance transitional justice, including the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and an Anti-Corruption Court, as part of measures aimed at addressing the country’s legacy of impunity.

Speaking Tuesday at the launch of the PeaceGen Project in Monrovia, Ireland’s Ambassador to Liberia, Gerard Considine, said his government remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peacebuilding, justice and accountability.

“We believe this project will help bridge the gap between the unresolved grievances of the past and the aspirations for justice in the future. It aligns perfectly with the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda and complements national efforts, including the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court,” Ambassador Considine said.

The PeaceGen Project is a three-year initiative funded by the European Union and the Government of Ireland and implemented by the Kvinna Till Kvinna Foundation in partnership with the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), the Female Journalists Association of Liberia (FeJAL), the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), and other partners.

The project seeks to strengthen the participation and leadership of women and young people in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, decision-making and transitional justice processes at both the local and national levels.

Launching the project, Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L), Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, described the initiative as a timely intervention that will empower young people to become advocates for peace, tolerance, responsible citizenship and social cohesion.

Addressing government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, youth organizations and development partners, Dr. Barbu said sustainable peace can only be achieved through justice, accountability and inclusion.

“True peace is built on justice, accountability, inclusion and opportunity,” he said. “Nations that fail to address the wounds of the past risk reopening them in the future.”

Dr. Barbu called on the Government of Liberia, development partners, the private sector, faith-based institutions and civil society organizations to provide sustained financial, technical and moral support for peacebuilding initiatives.

“Investing in peace is not charity; it is a national security imperative and a moral obligation,” he said, adding that empowering young people through education and leadership opportunities is essential to preventing violence and strengthening democracy.

He pledged OWECC-L’s support for the PeaceGen Project and urged Liberians to work collectively to combat impunity, corruption, violence and drug abuse while promoting reconciliation and accountability. -Press release