Monrovia, Liberia–The Minister of Labor, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, has reiterated Liberia’s commitment to upholding freedom of association and aligning the country’s labor practices with international standards, as the International Labor Organization (ILO) pledges technical support to harmonize Liberia’s labor laws.
Minister Kruah made the remarks during a high-level meeting with the ILO’s Technical Advisory Mission led by Madam Vanessa Phala, Regional Director for English-speaking West African States.
The meeting focused on developing a roadmap for harmonizing Liberia’s two key labor frameworks, the Decent Work Act and the Civil Service Standing Orders, in line with ILO Conventions #87 and #98.
“The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Labor, has already granted civil servants the right to form associations,” Minister Kruah stated. “We now encourage all private sector workers, including health workers and teachers, to form or join unions.”
He explained that ongoing consultations revealed gaps in worker classification, noting that while not all public workers are civil servants, those in the private sector, including health workers previously restricted, are now legally permitted to unionize.
“The fact that there are some restrictions in the Civil Service Standing Orders does not mean the Government has ruled out harmonization,” Minister Kruah emphasized.
Minister Kruah intimated that the Labor Ministry needs technical support from the ILO to ensure system the system conforms to international labor standards.
“We need technical support from the ILO to ensure our system conforms to international labor standards,” he added.
He, among other things highlighted that since the labor laws were passed by the National Legislature, any harmonization process must involve legislative engagement.
In response, ILO Regional Director Madam Vanessa Phala acknowledged Liberia’s efforts and reaffirmed the ILO’s commitment to assisting the country in aligning its labor practices with global norms.
“The mission of the ILO is to follow up on recommendations made by the Committee of Experts regarding the application of Conventions #87 and #98,” Madam Phala said. “Our goal is to facilitate dialogue, provide technical support, and help develop a roadmap toward full compliance.”
She commended the Ministry of Labor for fostering cooperation among workers, employers, and government officials, noting that this inclusive approach is key to sustainable labor reform.
“This will be a gradual process that requires continued dialogue and engagement,” she added. “The ILO stands ready to support Liberia’s national priorities, including those outlined in the ARREST Agenda.”
Madam Phala also pledged ongoing ILO support in preparing Liberia’s position for the upcoming ILO Conference in June and stressed the importance of protecting workers’ rights across all sectors.
The ILO mission’s visit marks a critical step in strengthening labor relations and enhancing social justice in Liberia.
