Liberia launches war and economic crimes courts nationwide outreach campaign today

PRESS RELEASE

Liberia through itsOffice for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC-L) is today poised to launch a nationwide outreach campaign aimed at fostering public understanding of the Courts’ mandates and the country’s transitional justice roadmap.

The launch, which is also intended to promote inclusive dialogue among citizens, survivors, and stakeholders, and encourage community participation in justice reform and civic education, is being held in collaboration with actors of Transitional Justice.

Under the theme: “Justice for All,”  the campaign, which is to cover Liberia’s 15 political sub-divisions, as well as Liberians in the Diaspora subsequently, is a transformative event aimed at engaging citizens across Liberia as part of effort in addressing impunity and promoting accountability.

Today’s launch of the nationwide outreach campaign marks a historic milestone in Liberia’s journey toward the establishment of courts to prosecute war and economics crimes, according to a recent OWECC-L’s statement, which emphasized that the establishment of these two courts aspire to end impunity and promote national healing, has been long-awaited.

Dr. Jallah A. Barbu, OWECC-L’s Executive Director, emphasized the campaign’s inclusive approach, stating; “Montserrado is not Liberia alone. We will work to ensure that every county is fully involved in this process. Justice must be accessible to all.”

The campaign is guided by the National Communication and Outreach Strategy for Transitional Justice, which  was developed through consultations with civil society actors, media professionals, traditional leaders, and international partners, is expected to feature truth telling and dwell on creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories, according to the OWECC-L’s statement.

The campaign’s messages including “Justice is everybody’s business” You are not forgotten. Justice is your right,” “Delayed justice is not denied justice,” will be amplified through radio, social media, community theater, and grassroots mobilization, ensuring accessibility across Liberia’s diverse communities.