JOSEPH BOAKAI, President of Liberia, said that innate greed, insensitivity to the poor, the international drug epidemic, money-laundering, dynamics of climate change and the impact of social media must compel a rethinking of the approach to global peace and security.  “Our beloved United Nations must undergo the institutional and philosophical reflections,” he said.  Twelve years ago, Liberia “dared to dream” of a future within the realm of possibility.  Named Liberia Rising, or Vision 2030, this plan has been the driving force behind all of his country’s planning efforts.  Liberia is focused on addressing the economic and social needs of millions of Liberians, especially its youth, who account for 60 per cent of the population.

Liberia focuses on development in agriculture and infrastructure, as well as justice and the rule of law, education, sanitation, health and tourism, he said.   But despite Liberia’s progress, poverty remains a significant challenge, with over half its population living below the poverty line.  Liberia also acknowledges the pressing need to address maternal and newborn mortality by implementing robust monitoring and evaluation of health services to accelerate the reduction of maternal and newborn mortality.

In January, Liberia achieved a historic milestone by peacefully transitioning from one democratic Government to another, he went on to say.  “We are gradually fostering and solidifying a democratic culture, ensuring that democracy is here to stay in Liberia,” he said.  Liberia is taking significant strides towards openness, transparency and accountability by empowering and supporting transparent institutions.  But the country is facing a drug epidemic, driven by international criminal enterprises and their networks, he said, urging the international community to join Liberia in addressing the escalating drug crisis.

Liberia is taking important steps to lead the conversation on climate action, he continued.  “While we take these actions, we are mindful of the need to build capacity and invest in critical areas of our economy such as using alternative financing for investment in the blue and green economy, and technological transfer to support these climate actions,” he added.  Liberia firmly stands with the rest of West Africa in the resolve to keep our 50-year-old ECOWAS intact.  “We oppose efforts to disintegrate our union and will not accept the region being used for proxy conflicts,” he stressed.  Liberia is prepared to work together with the United Nations and the international community to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goals and establish a fair, peaceful and sustainable world.