WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement on the Liberian senate’s decision to establish a war and economic crimes court:
“Liberian President Boakai and the legislature's recent move to establish a war and economic crimes court marks a significant step towards healing the wounds from Liberia’s civil wars. I urge President Boakai to quickly implement this historic resolution. The United States and international partners should also provide support for this critical process, ensuring it reflects the diverse perspectives of Liberian society.”
Background:
From 1995 to 2003, Liberia's civil wars resulted in 250,000 deaths and displaced millions. The impact of these wars continues to haunt those affected, undermining Liberia's growth and its role as a key U.S. ally and Africa's oldest democracy. Successive Liberian governments have largely failed to implement effective transitional justice and accountability.
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