Liberian Youth Committing to Peaceful Elections in Liberia

Published by Emmanuel S. King, Jr at September 13, 2023

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Over five hundred youth from several organizations and counties in Liberia recently committed themselves to peace during and after the October 10, 2023 General and Presidential elections.

Youth Actors engaging panelists during the summit

Organized by the Liberia YMCA with support from the Civil Peace Service (CPS) and held under the theme: Upholding Democracy and Promoting Peaceful Elections,” participants were drawn from political parties youth wing, civil society organizations, the Liberia Marketing Association, youth leaders, motorcycles union, student leaders, auxiliary groups and cross sectors of community peace builders from several counties in Liberia.

Key activities at the summit were panelists discussions on civic action, gender and election, youth perspective, inclusion and the media. Following the speeches and panelists discussion, participants signed a resolution of commitment to peace during and after the elections.

Panelists discussion

Guests included the Country Representative and Chief of the Office of the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Liberia (ONCHR), Christin Mukosa who served as Orator, representatives from the German and British embassies in Liberia.

Christin Mukosa delivered the oration

Mr. Mukosa noted that Liberia like many countries have a youthful population and when violence is heard of, it is mostly young people who are involved. He furthered that young people are instrumental in spreading information in the community and how they pass on messages can help develop their communities.

Making a special input, the Swedish Ambassador to Liberia & Sierra Leone, Urban Sjostrom said Liberians and the young people have a lot to celebrate especially at a time when the country is celebrating 20 years of peace.

Swedish Ambassador to Liberia and Sierra Leone, Urban Sjostromb

“Election is key to all Liberians and all actors should join hands to ensure they maintain peace.” The Swedish Ambassador said. Ambassador Sjostrom called on them to be Ambassadors of Peace. The program was held in Monrovia by the YMCA in partnership with the Civil Peace Service.