President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. of Liberia is set to address the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, presenting the country's achievements and challenges on the global stage. This year's session, themed "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all," will see Liberia's leader share his vision for the nation's future. Boakai's address is expected to focus on Liberia's role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, its presidency of the Council in December, and the country's progress in peacebuilding and post-conflict transition.
Last year, President Boakai made several key promises to the international community, including the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court, increased transparency in public office, and a stronger voice for Africa in global affairs. He also pledged to present Liberia's next Voluntary National Review on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2026. These commitments are now due for implementation, and the international community will be watching closely for progress. Boakai's speech is likely to outline the steps taken by his administration to fulfill these pledges.
A key aspect of Boakai's address is expected to be Liberia's seat on the UN Security Council, which the country sees as an opportunity to contribute to global peace and security. The Liberian government has stated that its agenda at this session covers a range of issues, including peace and security, climate action, global health, digital governance, humanitarian response, and rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions. Liberia's Ambassador to the UN, Samuel Graytoe Arthur, will play a crucial role in advancing these issues during the session.
Liberia's own passage from war to peace is a significant aspect of its story, and President Boakai is likely to highlight this experience as a model for other countries. The country's third National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security was launched at UN Headquarters on September 21, with Nobel laureate Leymah Gbowee among the featured voices. Additionally, the government unveiled its PATHWAYs Framework, a plan to provide every young Liberian with a pathway to opportunity by 2035. These initiatives demonstrate Liberia's commitment to sustainable development and peacebuilding.
One of the significant challenges facing Liberia is the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court, which has stalled in the Senate. President Boakai has taken steps to move the process forward, including signing an executive order releasing $2 million to the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court and extending its mandate to April 30, 2027. However, the court still requires international backing and funding to become operational. Boakai is likely to renew his call for international support for the court during his address.
On the economic front, President Boakai has a success story to share: for the first time in Liberia's history, domestic revenue has crossed $1 billion in a single year. The government is targeting $1.3 billion by the end of this year, and the President will likely highlight this achievement as a sign of Liberia's economic progress. However, the country's public debt stands at around $2.8 billion, and opposition leaders have warned that ordinary Liberians may not feel the benefits of the increased revenue if spending patterns do not change.
As President Boakai addresses the UN General Assembly, he will be expected to balance the narrative of Liberia's achievements with the challenges it still faces. The country's progress in peacebuilding and post-conflict transition has been recognized by the international community, with Sweden's Ambassador to the UN describing Liberia as a global role model. However, the President must also address the concerns of ordinary Liberians, who may not yet feel the benefits of the country's economic growth. The international community will be watching closely for signs of progress and commitment to Liberia's development.
Key points
- President Boakai to highlight Liberia's progress in peacebuilding and post-conflict transition.
- The establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court remains a significant challenge for Liberia.
- Liberia's domestic revenue has crossed $1 billion for the first time in the country's history.
