Women’s Rights And Civil Society Groups Issue Joint Statement On Safeguarding The Health And Future Of This Nation
FLASHBACK: Public campaign against drugs abuse in Liberia
Press Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2025
United Action to Combat Drug Trafficking and Substance Abuse in Liberia
Monrovia, Liberia – As we confront the urgent challenges posed by illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse affecting our youth and communities, we, the conglomeration of women’s rights and civil society organizations, stand united in our commitment to safeguarding the health and future of our nation.
The Drug Law of Liberia provides a vital framework for addressing these critical issues. However, it is essential that we mobilize our resources and actions to address the complex and overlapping issues, delivering a coordinated, integrated, and holistic response.
Moreover, it is more pressing than ever that we foster collaboration between government authorities, civil society, and community organizations to develop robust prevention and intervention strategies that prioritize education and rehabilitation and stronger accountability.
The devastating effects of illicit drug trafficking extend well beyond individual lives; they threaten families, destabilize communities, and undermine national security. We want to highlight the impact on women and girls in multiple ways: as victims of illicit drug use, as parents, and in trafficking and trade. Given the prevailing gender inequality, women and girls also bear the socio-economic burden of illicit drug use, including increased vulnerability to sexual and gender-based violence.
We believe that to effectively combat this issue, collective and intentional actions must be taken, such as ensuring that communities, especially women and young people, have access to necessary resources, including mental health support, addiction treatment information, and community networks. As we’ve seen with the 2014 Ebola Outbreak and more recently, the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, when communities are equipped with knowledge and tools, they can proactively protect their families, lead on culturally appropriate messaging and programs, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
Liberian women and community-led responses have historically been at the forefront of social transformation, playing a central role in grassroots movements, advocating for change, promoting peacebuilding initiatives, and mobilizing communities to shift gender and social norms. Their engagement is crucial for mobilizing collective action against drug trafficking and substance abuse, ultimately promoting safe environments for our youth. As such, women must be engaged as key stakeholders in the development and implementation of programs. The establishment of effective drug prevention programs tailored to our cultural context is also essential, and involving women as educators will enhance our approach to informing young people about the dangers of substance abuse while fostering resilience and empowerment.
Addressing the intergenerational cycle of substance abuse is necessary as well. By transforming personal narratives into powerful advocacy tools, we can empower men, women, and young people to guide the next generation toward healthier choices.
As we move forward, it is crucial to recognize that the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all segments of our society. It is important to recognize that tackling illicit drug use will require prevention mechanisms to not further marginalize communities already impacted by low socio-economic status. As such, it requires strong community engagement and ownership
To enhance accountability within security agencies, it is essential to remove and prosecute law enforcement officers involved in drug trafficking, as public trust cannot thrive amid impunity. Comprehensive laws should be enacted to criminalize drug trafficking while safeguarding vulnerable youth from incarceration due to addiction. Emphasis must be placed on community-based treatment centers, educational programs, and psychosocial support for young individuals struggling with addiction. Collaboration with neighboring countries and ECOWAS is crucial for disrupting trafficking routes and sharing intelligence.
Therefore, we call on all stakeholders—government bodies, civil society, community organizations, and international partners—to unite in this urgent effort. Together, let’s cultivate healthier communities where our young people are shielded from the grip of drugs and empowered to realize their full potential. The time to act is now, and we must confront this national crisis head-on to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for Liberia.
#EndDrugTrafficking #EmpowerCommunityLeadership #ProtectOurYouth
SIGNED
ASSOCIATION OF FEMALE LAWYERS OF LIBERIA
WONGOSOL
NATIONAL CIVIL SOCIETY COUNCIL OF LIBERIA
PEACE AND SECURITY OF WOMEN IN ECOWAS AREA-LIBERIA
AWLN-LIBERIA CHAPTER
WE ARE UNPROTECTED CAMPAIGN
WOMEN HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS OF LIBERIA
FEMALE JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION OF LIBERIA
LIBERIA FEMINIST FORUM