The United Nations Resident Coordinator to Liberia Christine N. Umutoni has commended the nation for its remarkable journey from conflict to peace, and for its growing role in promoting global stability.
In a powerful message published on the UN website this week, Umutoni praised Liberia’s progress and reaffirmed the UN’s continued partnership with the country.
Reflecting on her arrival in Liberia in February 2023, Umutoni described the country’s peaceful 2023 general elections and democratic transition of power from former President George Weah to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai as “remarkable.”
She highlighted the event as a significant milestone in a nation that has endured two devastating civil wars, but has since maintained more than two decades of stability.
“Liberia reminded the world, and perhaps itself-that it continues to choose peace over conflict and dialogue over division,” Umutoni wrote.
Continuing, she noted: “At a time when democratic setbacks are rising globally, Liberia offered something deeply valuable: proof that peaceful, people-driven transitions are not only possible but resilient.”
Liberia Earns Global Recognition
Liberia’s commitment to democratic governance and regional cooperation has not gone unnoticed on the world stage.
In June 2025, Liberia was elected to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term-a historic first and a testament to its evolution from a recipient of peacekeeping assistance to a contributor to global peace.
“Liberia is no longer defined by conflict,” Umutoni stated. “It is defined by courage, persistence, and the daily work of building a nation, step by step.”
A Nation on the Rise
The UN diplomat emphasized Liberia’s untapped potential, noting its rich natural resources, youthful population, and resilient spirit.
According to her, over 70 percent of Liberians are under the age of 35, and women make up a majority of the population.
“Liberians are more than the challenges they’ve overcome,” she wrote. “They are builders, ready to lead the next chapter of their country’s transformation.”
Launch of the ARREST Agenda
Umutoni acknowledged Liberia’s newly launched ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), a five-year national development plan spanning 2025 to 2029.
The strategy prioritizes six key sectors: agriculture, roads, rule of law, education, sanitation, and tourism.
She intimated that the plan aligns with global development frameworks, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, while focusing on economic transformation, human capital development, environmental sustainability, and good governance.
She, amongst other things indicated that to meet its ambitious goals, the nation is focusing on strengthening education and healthcare systems, empowering women and youth, and building resilience to climate change.
From Aid to Self-Reliance
At the recent Financing for Development Conference in Sevilla, Spain, global leaders acknowledged a decline in traditional aid, calling for stronger domestic financing models.
Umutoni noted Liberia’s plans to diversify its funding sources through innovative tools such as green bonds, diaspora investments, and gender-focused finance.
“Progress happens when national priorities drive partnerships,” she stated.
She further highlighted: “The global system must meet Liberia where it is, not as a charity case, but as a capable partner committed to inclusive, peaceful progress.”
UN’s Renewed Commitment
As Liberia transitions from a post-conflict society to a development-focused nation, the role of the UN has also evolved.
She disclosed that the United Nations in Liberia is currently preparing a new UN Cooperation Framework (2026–2030), aligned with the AAID and focused on economic transformation, governance, and human capital.
Umutoni assured Liberians that the UN remains deeply committed to supporting the country’s development journey: “Together, in genuine partnership, the United Nations in Liberia will continue contributing to the country’s story of dignity, resilience, and inclusive development.”
A Call to Action
While celebrating progress, Umutoni acknowledged that challenges remain-particularly in diversifying the economy, strengthening institutions, and addressing inequality.
Still, she expressed confidence in Liberia’s path forward.
“Now is the time to turn peace into lasting prosperity,” she said. “To let democratic values drive inclusive growth, and to show that Liberia can be a beacon of what’s possible when a nation invests in its people and believes in its own potential.”
She concluded with a heartfelt message to the people of Liberia: “God bless Liberia, and happy 178th Independence Anniversary.”
