Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 07/2012

Liberia: Time for Much-Delayed Reconciliation and Reform

June 2012

International Crisis Group

Abstract

"Liberia: Time for Much-Delayed Reconciliation and Reform", the latest International Crisis Group policy briefing, highlights the country's longstanding grievances and deepening fault lines. Disputes over natural resources, a weak police force and a frustrated younger generation threaten the fragile peace. Despite successful elections, resentment is growing among jobless youths about the enrichment and impunity of former leaders. The re-elected president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, must use her relatively weak mandate to focus on reconciling a divided nation and tackling unemployment.