-U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal encourages progress towards war crimes court establishment in Liberia
As the call for justice grows louder in Liberia, U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack, in an open letter addressed to the people of Liberia, has called upon Liberians to raise their voices in support of establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court in their country.
Ambassador Van Schaack reiterated the significance of the envisioned court, which was born out of recommendations from Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) with the aim of delivering true justice for the nation. Emphasizing that the court belongs to the people of Liberia and is intertwined with their history, she stressed the importance of community engagement and active participation in shaping the future of the justice system.
Encouraging individuals to express their opinions, Ambassador Van Schaack urged Liberians to communicate their desire for accountability to their representatives and local leaders. She highlighted the power of collective voices in driving positive change and emphasized that the responsibility for shaping Liberia’s future rests in the hands of its citizens.
Expressing unwavering support from the United States, Ambassador Van Schaack reassured Liberians that advocating for justice should not come at the cost of safety or freedom. She affirmed that all individuals should be able to speak out without fear of reprisal and that victims and witnesses must be safeguarded in the pursuit of justice.
Concluding her letter on a note of partnership and anticipation, Ambassador Van Schaack expressed her eagerness to continue working with the people of Liberia towards the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court. She conveyed her excitement for future collaborations and pledged the United States’ commitment to supporting Liberia in this critical endeavor.
As the call for justice grows louder in Liberia, Ambassador Van Schaack’s open letter serves as a rallying cry for citizens to stand united in pursuit of accountability and a brighter future for their nation.
Also in her letter addressed to the People of Liberia, U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, Beth Van Schaack, expressed optimism and support for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in the country. Ambassador Van Schaack commended President Boakai for prioritizing justice and taking steps towards addressing the atrocities committed during Liberia’s civil wars.
During her second visit to Liberia in early March, Ambassador Van Schaack acknowledged the long-standing wait of Liberians for justice following the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The announcement by President Boakai regarding the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court was welcomed by the international community, including the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia and colleagues in Washington.
The resolution in support of the War and Economic Crimes Court, which passed in the House with strong backing, was also highlighted in the letter. Ambassador Van Schaack praised the House members for their commitment to implementing the recommendations of the 2009 Truth and Reconciliation Commission and urged the Senate to follow suit.
Drawing from her experience as Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, Van Schaack emphasized the detrimental effects of impunity for heinous crimes on societies worldwide. She stressed that accountability for such crimes is essential for upholding the rule of law, combating corruption, and fostering lasting peace in nations affected by conflict.
