Liberia Urges Action on Migration, Trafficking

PAYNESVILLE, June 18, 2026 — The Liberian government has called for increased efforts to combat irregular migration and human trafficking, warning that refugees and displaced persons remain vulnerable to exploitation.

The call was made during the national commemoration of World Refugee Day 2026 at Paynesville City Hall.

The event was organized by the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) and the Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victim Support Initiative (LASTVSI) under the theme, “Solidarity with Refugees: Say No to Irregular Migration, Say No to Human Trafficking.”

The program brought together senior government officials, development partners, United Nations representatives, civil society organizations, refugees, and members of host communities.

Attendees included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Ministry of Labor, the National Disaster Management Agency, and UN Women.

LRRRC Executive Director Samuel F. Kpakio said Liberia remains committed to its international, regional, and national obligations to protect vulnerable persons.

He said that many people continue to embark on risky migration routes, exposing themselves to trafficking, exploitation, and other dangers.

Kpakio called for increased public awareness campaigns against trafficking. He said the Commission is working with the government, the United Nations, and other partners to strengthen refugee protection and promote safe migration.

He also highlighted the contributions of refugees to Liberian society through economic activities and tax payments.

The LRRRC said this year’s World Refugee Day theme, “Solidarity with Refugees,” aims to promote inclusion, protection, and self-reliance. Liberia’s national theme focuses on raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and trafficking.

Liberia Land Authority Board Chairman Samuel F. Kpakio called for collective efforts to promote protection and durable solutions for displaced populations.

He said unresolved land disputes continue to undermine social harmony and development efforts.

Kpakio said a recent assessment in southeastern Liberia found growing encroachment by foreign nationals on customary and public lands.

He noted that informal settlements and land challenges present complex issues for Liberia, including land tenure security and environmental conservation.

He said the Liberia Land Authority faces resource constraints, operating with about 320 personnel, well below the 1,300 needed to fulfill its mandate.

Kpakio recently led a technical assessment mission to six counties in southeastern Liberia to evaluate land tenure, land service delivery, and reports of disputes and illegal occupancy.

The assessment team engaged local authorities and community members.

The consultations highlighted the need to strengthen land governance, expand access to land services, and promote peaceful coexistence among communities.

Kpakio said responsible land governance is essential to peacebuilding and sustainable development for refugees and displaced persons.

He called for collaboration among government, partners, and communities to address land challenges affecting vulnerable populations.

He also urged intensified efforts to combat illegal migration and trafficking, while upholding protection and inclusion for those seeking refuge.

The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection reported that more than 18,000 children have been removed from the streets and enrolled in school through government interventions.

World Refugee Day is observed globally to recognize the contributions of refugees and displaced persons.