The Liberia Diplomatic Think-Tank marked a significant milestone as it concluded a one-day retreat on January 11, 2025, in Monrovia. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s activities over the past year and establish a strategic plan to enhance its role in Liberia’s diplomatic landscape for 2025.
In his opening statement, Executive Director Mr. Amos Williams welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of active engagement throughout the retreat. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead this crucial initiative, stating, “Our collective efforts today are not just about reviewing our past; they are about shaping the future of Liberia’s foreign policy objectives.”
The Liberia Diplomatic Think-Tank was founded by a group of like-minded professionals, most of whom are alumni of the renowned Gabriel L. Dennis Foreign Service Institute (FSI). As the first think-tank of its kind in Liberia, it aims to promote the country’s foreign policy objectives and serve as a pivotal player in the development of diplomatic policy solutions.
The newly adopted strategic plan outlines some core objectives, including establishing institutional credibility and visibility, conducting high-quality research and analysis, influencing policymakers, assessing Liberia’s foreign service human resource capacity, fostering partnerships and collaboration, and ensuring organizational sustainability and growth. These objectives are designed to enhance the think-tank’s impact and effectiveness in addressing key national and international issues.
The retreat, held in Paynesville, brought together the think-tank’s leadership and prominent members. Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, brainstorming sessions, and strategic planning exercises that highlighted the organization’s commitment to impactful research and dialogue.
Looking forward, the Liberia Diplomatic Think-Tank is set to launch its first groundbreaking research findings in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative is expected to provide critical insights into pressing issues affecting Liberia and the broader West African region. In 2024, the think-tank issued several press statements addressing key topics and this year, it anticipates an even more robust engagement in national and regional discussions.
In addition to outlining its strategic objectives, the think-tank also underscored the necessity of conducting a comprehensive needs assessment to identify priority research areas critical to Liberia’s national interests. This assessment will focus on key sectors such as conflict resolution, economic development, public health, and environmental sustainability. These areas are vital not only for Liberia’s growth but also for its role in global cooperation and peace initiatives.
As the Liberia Diplomatic Think-Tank positions itself as a leader in diplomatic and policy solutions, its commitment to rigorous research, informed dialogue and strategic insights will play a pivotal role in supporting Liberia’s national interests. With a clear vision to enhance Liberia’s international standing and contribute to global peace and development, the think-tank is poised to make significant strides in the coming year.
The retreat has set the stage for a transformative year ahead, as the Liberia Diplomatic Think-Tank aims to become a formidable player in shaping the country’s diplomatic discourse and fostering international relations.
