Liberia at the Crossroads
Newsletter: Volume1, Issue 2 - August 2004
Fifteen years of devastating civil war in Liberia have finally
culminated in nationwide disarmament and a newly formed transitional
government. Once labeled by the New York Times as "the poorest
nation in the world", Liberia is at a crossroads as reconstruction
and rebirth begin.
In economic and social ruin, instability across the region was
fostered by the sale of illicit (blood) diamonds and the overexploitation
of forests to buy guns throughout the conflict. These activities
ultimately led to UN sanctions being placed on diamond and timber
exports.
 In
October 2003, the civil conflict came to an end. The United Nations,
supported by several member states, established a National Transition
Government and is in the midst of implementing a 15,000 person
strong peacekeeping mission. With disarmament and the promise
of a lasting peace at hand, this represents a unique opportunity
to rebuild this failed state. Many important issues lie ahead
for the people and government of Liberia.
One issue Liberia must address is how it will grow its national
economy. Historically, it has been financially dependent on the
maritime, forestry and mining sectors.
As their country is rich in natural resources, past Liberian
presidents have supported overexploitation for their own gain,
with the people of Liberia receiving little benefit.
UN sanctions on timber provide a much needed respite from the
devastation of Liberia's forests that has occurred over the past
five years. Harvest levels more than three times legal limits
resulted in the loss and fragmentation of large tracts of Liberia's
forests.
FPI, collaborating with partner organizations, will work closely
with government, industry and communities to assist them to choose
a path of sustainable natural resource management to promote the
healthy growth of Liberia.
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