UN Peacebuilding Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Liberia’s Peace and Development

Monrovia, Liberia – The United Nations Peacebuilding Commission's Liberia Configuration has reiterated its steadfast support for Liberia’s transition from civil war to a peaceful and prosperous society. 

Nicolas Clase, Sweden's Permanent Representative to the UN, delivered this message during a press conference at the One UN House in Monrovia on Monday, November 25 explained that Sweden has chaired the Liberia Configuration since 2012, and Clase recently assumed her role as Sweden’s Permanent Representative to the UN. This visit marked her first mission in this capacity.

“This visit has reinforced our belief in Liberia’s vast potential and the resilience of its people. We are here to stand alongside Liberia as it builds on its peace and moves toward long-term prosperity,” Clase stated.

During the first five-days the Clase covered engagements in Montserrado and Bong Counties, which included consultations with government officials, joint security forces, civil society organizations, youth representatives, and women’s groups while was accompanied by the UN Resident Coordinator and officials from the UN Peacebuilding Support Office.

Since 2007, the UN Peacebuilding Fund has provided over $100 million to support Liberia’s peacebuilding priorities, strengthening government institutions at both the national and local levels.

Explaining further, Clase highlighted the critical role of Liberia’s youth in shaping the country’s future. “We were deeply inspired by the determination and vision of Liberia’s young people. They are eager to be productive members of society, underscoring the need to link peace building with education and economic opportunities,” she said.

The delegation emphasized that sustained investment in education for children, youth, and adults is essential to fostering peace and driving economic growth.

During visits to women’s peace huts and discussions with women’s groups, Clase and her team emphasized the indispensable role women have played in Liberia’s peacebuilding journey.

 “Liberian women were instrumental in ending the civil war and remain leaders in promoting peace and development,” Clase remarked.

Women’s representatives raised pressing concerns, including the need for increased economic and political participation, protections against gender-based violence, and improved access to essential services. The delegation pledged continued advocacy for the empowerment of Liberian women.

Clase also commended Liberia’s peaceful conduct of recent elections, viewing it as a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustaining peace. She emphasized the importance of transforming this peace into economic benefits for all Liberians.

“Liberia is a country with immense opportunity, and its people are determined to see this peace lead to prosperity. Together, we can ensure a future of sustained peace and development,” Clase concluded.

The Liberia Configuration, established to aid the nation’s transition from conflict to peace, continues to play a critical role in supporting Liberia’s progress under Sweden’s leadership since 2012.