CPS – Guiding Young People to Peace and Ensuring a Drug Free Society in Liberia

As part of the Civil Peace Service Liberia Network (CPS) efforts for a drug-free society and to help ensure peace in Liberia is preserved, the network recently held a program that included a panel discussion. This brought together CPS partner organizations, stakeholders, communities, young people, and students to discuss issues related to drug and substance abuse and peace in Liberia.

Mr. Abdullai O. Bility, Vice President for International Affairs of the Federation of Liberian Youth, during the interactive forum organized by Civil Peace Service, Liberia Network, noted, “Since the civil war ended in Liberia in 2023, the proliferation and use of illicit drugs and substance abuse among many young people in communities in Liberia is on the increase.”

A representative of the Federation of Liberian Youth, the organization that represents thousands of Liberian youth, was one of three panelists who spoke on, Keeping the Peace in Liberia: United for Reconciliation and a Drug-Free Future.” This theme highlights Liberia’s struggle against the growing drug crisis and the urgent need for collective action to preserve peace. It also emphasizes the need for peace, promotes reconciliation between communities, and addresses the dangers of drug addiction that undermine social harmony and stability.

He stated that FLY is working with victims of drug and substance abuse to undergo rehabilitation, many of whom are young people. “Many of our young people are confronted with the issue of drug and substance abuse, and our concern is not just rehabilitation and reintegration, but prevention.”

“Once young people know the danger of drug and substance abuse, they will stay away.” He noted.

He cautioned young people and students to stay away from drugs and substances that will harm them, and wants them to report anyone who peddles drugs.

Mr. Bility also highlighted the role of the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) in promoting peace and reconciliation in Liberia, as well as its efforts in combating drugs and substance abuse. He told the gathering that collaboration with local and international partners to mobilize first-time voters who turned 18 years old led to targeted education on how their vote can be meaningful.

“Launched across Liberia’s fifteen counties, the initiative was intended for these first-time voters to contribute to a healthy democracy.”

Commenting on a violence-free society, Mr. Bility said a campaign was launched targeting students and young people for a violence-free election. They held civic awareness campaigns across the country to sensitize young people on the effects of violence during elections and how it affects and undermines development.

Civil Peace Service Liberia Network aims to inform and educate young people, communities, and students on the need for peace, promoting reconciliation between communities.

The discussion was also held to address the dangers of drug addiction in communities, schools, and society, which undermine social harmony and stability.

Several participants who attended the program expressed their appreciation to CPS Liberia Network and partners for the forum. It provided an opportunity for them to know what is being done in schools and communities in the fight against drug and substance abuse. A community member, who spoke at the program, John Saah, called for increased awareness in schools and communities on the dangers of drugs and substance abuse. P

During the interactive discussion, two students, Massa Freeman and Alfred McCauley, said it is important for continued engagement on peace education and drug awareness in schools and communities. This is to enable community members and students to be aware of the danger of drug and substance abuse. They all noted that this will help their friends stay away from drugs.

During the interactive discussion, two students, Massa Freeman and Alfred McCauley, said it is essential for continued engagement on peace education and drug awareness in schools and communities. This, they noted, will enable community members and students to be aware of the danger of drug and substance abuse, which they all noted will help their friends stay away from drugs.

CPS Network and partner organizations in Liberia have been holding programs, panel discussions, awareness programs, and other programs to discuss the issue of drug and substance abuse, which has been declared a “National Emergency” in Liberia.