President Boakai Urges Global Support for Liberia’s Poverty Fight and UN Security Council Bid at UNGA 79th Session

Liberian President, H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, has called for international collaboration to combat poverty, deliver justice, and support Liberia’s quest for a seat on the United Nations Security Council. President Boakai made this plea during his first address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday at the UN Headquarters in New York.

In his speech, President Boakai emphasized that despite almost two decades of peace, poverty remains a significant challenge in Liberia. He highlighted that more than half of the population, particularly the youth, still live below the poverty line. Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially the goal of eradicating poverty by 2030.

“Even with our progress, poverty continues to plague Liberia,” Boakai said, urging global backing to help the nation tackle this issue.

Addressing Liberia’s transitional justice efforts, President Boakai underscored the government’s commitment to establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court, in line with the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. He pointed to his May 2 signing of Executive Order 131, which formalized the Office for Transitional Justice to advance the process of justice and reconciliation for victims of Liberia’s 14-year civil war.

“We seek the support of the United Nations and our international partners as we strive for justice, peace, and reconciliation,” he remarked, aligning the move with Liberia’s obligations under international law.

Boakai also celebrated Liberia’s recent democratic progress, including the country’s second peaceful transition of power earlier this year, a milestone for post-war Liberia. He pledged continued commitment to strengthening the rule of law, transparency, and accountability, vital for sustaining Liberia’s peace and stability.

The President further appealed to the international community to back Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in 2026. He described the bid as a pivotal opportunity for Liberia to contribute to global peace and security, underscoring the nation’s long-standing support for multilateralism as one of the UN’s founding members.

“We look forward to receiving the overwhelming support of member states for Liberia’s seat on the UN Security Council, where we can help promote global peace and justice,” Boakai said in his closing remarks.

President Boakai’s address highlighted Liberia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions and build a prosperous and peaceful future with the help of the international community.