Monrovia, Liberia — In a significant move towards advancing inclusive governance and sustainable development, the Government of Liberia has officially launched its National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS). The ceremony took place at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, gathering government officials, international partners, civil society organizations, and youth stakeholders in a unified call to action.
During the event, Minister of Education Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah delivered the keynote address on behalf of Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung. Dr. Jallah described the NAP as “a statement of our collective belief in the power, potential, and promise of Liberia’s youth.” She emphasized that including youth in decision-making is not merely an issue of fairness, but a crucial element for fostering peace, security, and overall national progress.
The National Action Plan is grounded in UN Security Council Resolution 2250 and its subsequent resolutions, 2419 and 2535. Liberia’s strategy is structured around five essential pillars:
1. Participation – Ensuring meaningful engagement of youth in decision-making processes.
2. Prevention – Addressing the root causes of violence and conflict.
3. Protection – Safeguarding the rights and dignity of young individuals.
4. Partnerships – Strengthening collaboration among government bodies, civil society, and international stakeholders.
5. Disengagement and Reintegration – Supporting young people in transitioning from conflict to productive roles within society.
Dr. Jallah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the ARREST Agenda under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.’s leadership, noting that the NAP’s success hinges on coordinated efforts across various sectors.
In attendance were representatives from international and national partners, including the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) and the Embassy of Sweden, who praised the NAP as a landmark achievement. They expressed their commitment to supporting the initiative’s implementation.
The Government of Liberia has called upon all stakeholders—including youth groups, community members, civil society organizations, government institutions, and development partners—to unite in transforming this plan into actionable steps that will strengthen peace, enhance inclusion, and realize the full potential of Liberia’s youth.
