374 results on '"LIBERIAN politics & government"'
Search Results
2. Liberia an(d) Empire?: Sovereignty, 'Civilisation' and Commerce in Nineteenth-Century West Africa.
- Author
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Mark-Thiesen, Cassandra and Mihatsch, Moritz A.
- Subjects
- *
COLONIAL law , *CUSTOMARY law , *SOVEREIGNTY ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
In the 1840s, Liberia was a black settler state on the West African coast which avowedly supported the connected ideologies of Christianity, commerce, and 'civilisation'. However, from the 1870s, as the rest of West Africa began to be divided up into colonies, adherence to these 'Western' values did not spare Liberia's leaders from some of the disruptive consequences of European expansionism. This article frames these consequences in the context of commercial clashes between the Liberian state and European traders (and their companies). These clashes predated Liberia's declaration of independence in 1847, worsened thereafter, and later became increasingly politicised with the stricter enforcement of colonial law in the region in the 1870s, partly as a result of economic crisis. On the coast, Liberian officials struggled legally and militarily to stave off the activities of European smugglers with diplomatic backing. In the interior, commercial alliances were forged with local authorities in an attempt to keep out the French and the British, in particular. Conflicts over the collection of customs duties, the setting of borders, and, ultimately, the nature and extent of Liberian sovereignty, reached a climax during the Berlin Conference (1884–1885). The Conference led Liberia, by 1904, to implement its own version of colonial 'indirect rule': first and foremost to safeguard its independence, secondarily as a tool of expansion. In spite of major losses Liberian leaders were ultimately able to strengthen the country's standing as a member of the international community of nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Liberia: 2018 Country Review.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,GROSS domestic product ,ECONOMIC history - Abstract
A country report for Liberia is presented from publisher Country Watch with topics including political structure of the country, macro-economic indicators such as gross domestic product (GDP), and foreign relations of the country.
- Published
- 2018
4. Liberia: Understanding Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in Post-Conflict Societies.
- Author
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AFOLABI, Olugbemiga Samuel, IDOWU, Harrison Adewale, and FORPOH, George Tee
- Subjects
CONFLICT management ,DISPUTE resolution ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Conflict and its resolution have often been part of human history. While the post-colonial state has often been the focus when explaining the persistence of conflicts and its resolution in Africa, the benefits of such focus and analysis has not been enough to explain the intra-and inter-state nature of conflicts and conflict management in Africa. This necessitates a reconsideration of conflict management strategies. Such reconsideration will show the intricate ways conflicts and its resolutions are shaped, especially in post-conflict societies, through the instrumentality of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism. With Liberia as the focus and unit of analysis, it noted that the country has been the epicentre of several years of violent conflicts with both internal and external dimensions, raising questions about the effectiveness of the orthodox conflict management mechanisms given that the Liberian conflict was intractable for a long time. However, the adoption of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms has helped resolve most, if not all, of the conflicts. This paper, therefore, examines the local, traditional and communal alternative dispute resolution mechanisms used to solve the Liberian crisis. Specifically, the paper interrogates traditional methods of conflict resolution, inclusive of communalism, ethnocultural perception of conflicts and its resolution, aswell as epistemic and ethical protocols guiding peace-building efforts. This is with the aim to provide an understanding of Africa's peace initiatives, choices and options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Our Man in Liberia.
- Author
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Butcher, Tim
- Subjects
- *
BRITISH authors , *SLAVERY , *TRAVEL ,LIBERIA description & travel ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article discusses a trip made by the English author Graham Greene to Liberia in 1935. An historical overview of the establishment of Liberia is presented as an asylum for freed African American slaves. Emphasis is given to allegations of slavery within Liberia following the economic development of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company and Greene's trip as a way to report on African slavery for the Anti-Slavery and Aborigines' Protection Society in Great Britain. Other topics include the publication of the travel memoir "Journey Without Maps," Greene's traveling partner and cousin Barbara Greene, and the intervention of the League of Nations.
- Published
- 2010
6. Promoting Political Participation in War-torn Countries.
- Author
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Mvukiyehe, Eric
- Subjects
- *
POLITICAL participation , *POSTWAR reconstruction , *PEACEBUILDING , *NATIONAL security ,UNITED Nations peacekeeping forces ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
This article uses original survey data to study the effects of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) on the political attitudes and behaviors of ordinary Liberians. Three results emerge: (i) UNMIL has positive, statistically significant effects on political participation measured over multiple outcome indicators; (ii) UNMIL’s effects display heterogeneity across individual outcome indicators, most positive effects are concentrated around measures associated with participation in national politics as well as political interest and efficacy, while the effects on participation in local politics are mixed; and (iii) self-reported measures of citizens’ interactions with UNMIL military personnel and exposure to democracy and to human rights campaigns carried out by international actors have strong positive associations with political participation, suggesting that results are driven by security and nonsecurity mechanisms. This article discusses the implications of these findings and areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. Engaging decentralization in an uncertain political context: Lessons from Liberia.
- Author
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Krawczyk, Kelly and Muhula, Raymond
- Subjects
- *
DECENTRALIZATION in government , *LOCAL government , *GOVERNMENT accountability , *QUALITATIVE research ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Abstract: This study uses a Diagnostic Framework for Local Governance to evaluate the current capacity for administrative decentralization at the county level in Liberia, as well as to identify political economy challenges and opportunities surrounding decentralization. Applying the Problem‐Driven Iterative Adaptation (PDIA) framework to our findings, we offer recommendations for moving decentralization reform forward. We find strong demand for administrative decentralization among local officials, and propose that decentralization reform can be enhanced through incremental implementation that focuses on strengthening the existing structures and capacity of local administration, and through the creation of stronger accountability and participatory mechanisms. The triangulated research design includes focus group and interview data in eight Liberian counties, analyzed using NVivo Qualitative Data Analysis Software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
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8. Full Issue.
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LIBERIAN politics & government ,RWANDAN politics & government - Published
- 2018
- Full Text
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9. Has the Freedom of Information Act enhanced transparency and the free flow of information in Liberia?
- Author
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Svärd, Proscovia
- Subjects
FREEDOM of information ,TRANSPARENCY in government ,ACCESS control for government information ,SUSTAINABLE development ,CONSTITUTIONAL law ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
This article investigates if the adoption of the Liberian Freedom of Information (FOI) law 2010 has led to a transparent government and increased the free flow of government information. Freeing government information is expected to create transparent and accountable governments. It brings forth democratic and inclusive government institutions that work for the people. Inclusivity, transparency and accountability are expected to address sustainable development challenges and democracy deficits. Transparency and accountability can only be achieved through access to government information. The right to access government information is also included in the national constitution of Liberia. The citizens of Liberia in West Africa suffered from a protracted civil war between 1989–1996 and 1999–2003 respectively. These wars were partly caused by non-accountability of the governments, endemic corruption and the mismanagement of the countries’ resources. Efforts are being made by the government with the help of the international community to embrace a new democratic dispensation. Liberia was also one of the first African countries to enact a Freedom of Information (FOI) Law that would enable Liberians to access government information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. The Political Economy of the Growth of the Liberian Public Sector.
- Author
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Kieh, George Klay
- Subjects
PUBLIC sector ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,CORPORATE capitalism ,NATION building ,ECONOMIC history - Abstract
Using a political economy approach, this study examines the nature, dynamics, and causes of the expansion of the Liberian public sector. The findings show that the major causes for the expansion of the Liberian public sector did not fit those provided by the literature—citizens’ demands for new services, and other issues that emerge from state-building. Instead, the politico-economic interests of the Liberian ruling class (both the internal and external wings) are the major causes for the increase in the size of the government. These interests include serving the interests of corporate capitalism, and the private accumulation of wealth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. West Africa: Shake-up for the status quo.
- Author
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Davies, Desmond
- Subjects
- *
HUMAN rights violations -- Law & legislation ,AFRICAN politics & government ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article offers news briefs concerning politics in West Africa, as of December 2017. Topics discussed include efforts of former World Footballer of the Year George Weah in Liberia to run for presidential elections; President Ernest Koroma of Sierra Leone expected to retire to the country's leadership; and challenging state of human rights protection in Africa after the creation of the African Union Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights,.
- Published
- 2018
12. Post-conflict women's movements in turmoil: the challenges of success in Liberia in the 2005-aftermath.
- Author
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DEBUSSCHER, PETRA and DE ALMAGRO, MARIA MARTIN
- Subjects
- *
SOCIAL advocacy , *FEMINISM , *POSTWAR reconstruction , *GENDER inequality ,SECOND Liberian Civil War, 1999-2003 ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
In Liberia, women's advocacy has been crucial in bringing peace after 14 years of conflict as well as in electing Africa's first female president. While the accomplishments of the women's movement have been widely praised, some authors have suggested that the once vibrant movement is crumbling. In this article we claim that one of the most important challenges for the Liberian women's movement comes precisely from its internationally proclaimed success, provoking four related outcomes: First, different women's organisations compete for the credit of the success story; second, the national government has tried to appropriate the movement and integrate it into governmental structures; third, the relationship between the movement and its international partners has evolved towards mutual disappointment due to a lack of sustainable funding and unmet expectations; and fourth, the movement seems stuck in the peacemaker label and unable to redefine itself to engage in new battles as international aid diminishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
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13. Building a more competent security sector: The case of UNMIL and the Liberian National Police.
- Author
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Karim, Sabrina and Gorman, Ryan
- Subjects
- *
SECURITY sector , *POLICE , *CONFLICT management -- International cooperation , *SEX discrimination , *HISTORY ,UNITED Nations peacekeeping forces ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Increasingly UN peacekeeping missions are helping to implement security sector reforms (SSR), including gender reforms, targeted at the local police of host countries. This study uses the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the Liberian National Police (LNP) as a way to explore whether SSR may have helped improve individual officers' professional and gender competencies. Conducting a novel lab-in-the-field experiment, we test the individual competencies of 612 LNP officers, also analysing possible determinants of these competencies. We find that most officers have knowledge about statutory crimes and evidence gathering, most officers participate in group activities, almost half are aware of gendered crimes and that male and female officers are equally competent. However, our results suggest that the reforms are at the nascent stages of working, and that more focus should be put into basic training and gender mainstreaming in the Liberian National Police, especially as new recruits are added. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
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14. The Interplay of Domestic Legitimation and Foreign Relations: Contrasting Charles Taylor and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia.
- Author
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Gerdes, Felix
- Subjects
- *
CIVIL war , *INTERNATIONAL relations ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
This article investigates legitimacy and foreign relations of Liberia’s two most important recent rulers. It argues that Charles Taylor was widely considered legitimate in Liberia and that the Weberian concept of charismatic authority best explains the popularity of the former warlord and president. Charisma, however, is tied to specific cultural contexts and Taylor’s popularity was not intelligible to Western audiences. By contrast, Johnson Sirleaf frames her policies in terms appealing to both the domestic and international audiences. As a consequence, she succeeded to attract significant foreign assistance enabling her to increase legitimacy and strengthen stability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
15. Liberia.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,ECONOMIC history - Abstract
A country report for Liberia is presented from publisher The PRS Group, with topics including political structure, economic structure; and a table depicting various risk categories of the market.
- Published
- 2017
16. After Sirleaf, What Kind of Change Does Liberia Need?
- Author
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Corey-Boulet, Robbie
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PUBLIC debts ,SOCIAL change ,ECONOMIC history - Abstract
The article discusses several changes required in Liberia after election of President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Topics discussed include increase in public association of Sirleaf with elite class due to working on foreign contracts for securing debt relief and appointments of diaspora Liberians to top positions, Vice President (VP) and contender Joseph Boakai offering as unlikely change-maker, and views of activist Korte Williams, on social change.
- Published
- 2017
17. Settler State.
- Author
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Adelman, Kenneth
- Subjects
- *
BLACK pioneers , *POWER (Social sciences) , *INDIGENOUS peoples , *FREEDMEN , *COLONIES , *SUMMIT meetings ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Explains that Liberia, Africa's only black settler colony, has been thrust into the international limelight as the host of the July 1979 Organization for African Unity summit meeting. Settler class consider themselves as the bringers of civilization, Christianity, and capitalism to a dark land; Settlers' descendants in control of political and economic power; Tribal peoples' status of inequality; Settlers were liberated American slaves; Capital Monrovia was named in honor of American president James Monroe.
- Published
- 1979
18. Government Structure.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,LEGISLATIVE bodies ,PRACTICAL politics - Abstract
The article offers information on structure of Liberian government which includes several components including legislative branch, House of Representatives and electoral procedure.
- Published
- 2013
19. Political Conditions.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,LIBERIAN Americans - Abstract
The article offers information on the political conditions faced by Liberia in its history including civil war of the country, adoption of peace process American and African leaders and the selection process of Charles Taylor. former president of Liberia.
- Published
- 2013
20. Government Structure.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,ELECTIONS ,JUSTICE administration - Abstract
The article provides an overview of Liberia's structure of government as of 2012 including the country's type of government, elections, and legal system.
- Published
- 2012
21. Political Conditions.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,MARTIAL law - Abstract
The article offers an overview of the political conditions of Liberia, with details on a coup d'etat led by Samuel K. Doe, Americo-Liberian leader, the death of President William Tolbert and the enforcement of martial law.
- Published
- 2011
22. Government Structure.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article offers information on the government structure in Liberia.
- Published
- 2010
23. Political Conditions.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article presents an overview of the political conditions in Liberia.
- Published
- 2010
24. Political Conditions.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PRACTICAL politics - Abstract
The article provides an overview on the political conditions in Liberia and explores the history from post-independence to civil war, as well as the peace process and transition to civilian rule.
- Published
- 2009
25. POLITICAL OVERVIEW.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PUBLIC officers ,MILITARY policy ,INTERNATIONAL relations - Abstract
Presents an overview of the political conditions in Liberia. Details of the political history and the formation of the current government; List of principle government officials; Structure of the government; Policy on foreign relations; Expenditures for military and defense forces; Biographical information on the leader of the nation.
- Published
- 2008
26. POLITICAL OVERVIEW.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article provides a political overview of Liberia including information on its history, political conditions, and political stability.
- Published
- 2007
27. POLITICAL OVERVIEW.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PUBLIC officers ,MILITARY policy ,INTERNATIONAL relations - Abstract
Presents an overview of the political conditions in Liberia. Details of the political history and the formation of the current government; List of principle government officials; Structure of the government; Policy on foreign relations; Expenditures for military and defense forces; Biographical information on the leader of the nation.
- Published
- 2006
28. LIBERIA.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,ECONOMIC history - Abstract
A country report for Liberia is presented from publisher PRS Group with topics including government stability in the country, economic conditions of the country, and investment profile of the country.
- Published
- 2019
29. POLITICAL OVERVIEW.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PUBLIC officers ,MILITARY policy ,INTERNATIONAL relations - Abstract
Presents an overview of the political conditions in Liberia. Details of the political history and the formation of the current government; List of principle government officials; Structure of the government; Policy on foreign relations; Expenditures for military and defense forces; Biographical information on the leader of the nation.
- Published
- 2005
30. Republic of Liberia.
- Subjects
- *
ECONOMIC history ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,LIBERIAN history - Abstract
This article provides information on Liberia. There are 16 ethnic groups that make up Liberia's indigenous population. Portuguese explorers established contacts with Liberia as early as 1461 and named the area Grain Coast because of the abundance of grains of Malegueta Pepper. Liberia, which means "land of the free" was founded by freed slaves from the United States in 1920. Each of Liberia's 18 political parties and each of Liberia's 15 counties select one member, while civil society selects 7 members. Liberia has a bicameral legislature which consists of 64 representatives and 26 senators. There is a Supreme Court, criminal courts, and appeals court and magistrate courts in the counties. The Liberian economy relied heavily on the mining of iron ore and on the export of natural rubber prior to the civil war. Liberia was a major exporter of iron ore on the world market. Liberia has maintained traditionally cordial relations with the West. Liberia currently also maintains diplomatic relations with Libya, Cuba, and Taiwan.
- Published
- 2003
31. POLITICAL OVERVIEW.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,PUBLIC officers ,MILITARY policy ,INTERNATIONAL relations - Abstract
Presents an overview of the political conditions in Liberia. Details of the political history and the formation of the current government; List of principle government officials; Structure of the government; Policy on foreign relations; Expenditures for military and defense forces; Biographical information on the leader of the nation.
- Published
- 2003
32. Chapter II: Political Overview.
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,EDUCATION ,HISTORY ,INTERNATIONAL relations ,SOCIAL history - Abstract
Presents an overview of the political and social sectors in Liberia, including population, principal government officials, education, social infrastructure, history, government, armed forces and foreign relations.
- Published
- 2000
33. The Political Landscape of Postwar Liberia: Reflections on National Reconciliation and Elections.
- Author
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Bøås, Morten and Utas, Mats
- Subjects
- *
ELECTIONS , *POSTWAR reconstruction , *SOCIAL conflict , *SOCIAL history ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,LIBERIAN history, 1980- - Abstract
Elections in postconflict countries are commonly seen as evidence that hostilities have come to an end and a new era of peace, reconciliation, and development will begin; however, the reality may be quite different, particularly when setbacks include lingering antagonism and ongoing division between opposing groups or former parties to the conflict. With a focus on the 2011 elections in postconflict Liberia, this article presents some of the central historical background to be considered, the dilemmas to be resolved, and obstacles to be overcome if not only democratic elections, but also a democratic society, is to emerge there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Anti-corruption or accountability? International efforts in post-conflict Liberia.
- Author
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Funaki, Yoshino and Glencorse, Blair
- Subjects
- *
POSTWAR reconstruction , *INTERVENTION (International law) , *CORRUPTION , *SOCIAL norms , *INTERNATIONAL agencies , *POWER (Social sciences) , *POLITICAL accountability , *SOCIAL history ,LIBERIAN history ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
This paper analyses anti-corruption efforts in post-conflict Liberia. It highlights citizens’ views on the definition of corruption and argues that, in the past, anti-corruption efforts have often focused on institution building and formal justice mechanisms without sufficient understanding of accountability dynamics on the ground. Anti-corruption approaches in Liberia have only nominally examined whether there is a shared understanding of what ‘corruption’ is and why it is regarded as a problem. The paper examines the social norms and perceptions that underlie understandings of the term corruption. It argues that the international community may have overlooked the fact that ‘corruption’ has become an all-encompassing term that masks a myriad of differing priorities and concerns. The authors posit that ‘accountability’ may be a more useful lens for those actors hoping to improve governance in these contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Natural resources and corruption in post-war transitions: matters of trust.
- Author
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Le Billon, Philippe
- Subjects
- *
POLITICAL corruption , *EQUALITY , *POSTWAR reconstruction , *NATURAL resources , *TRUST , *MINERAL industries , *RESOURCE exploitation , *WEALTH ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,SIERRA Leone politics & government, 1961- - Abstract
Many ‘post-conflict’ countries face difficulties in reaping the full benefits of their natural resource wealth for reconstruction and development purposes. This is a major issue given these countries’ needs and the risk of seeing ‘mismanaged’ primary sectors undermine a transition to peace. Bringing together debates about the ‘inequality-mistrust-corruption’ trap and relationships between natural resources and corruption, this paper suggest that some resource sectors may be more likely to foster inequalities, and thereby increase corruption and distrust, while others are less likely to do so. Reviewing arguments and empirical evidence, I point to the relative importance of transition contexts, stakeholder incentives and resource sector characteristics, and suggest how resource-related corruption may be better understood in relation to trust-building and reconciliation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. US Covert and Overt Operations in Liberia, 1970s to 2003.
- Author
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HAHN, NIELS
- Subjects
- *
UNDERCOVER operations , *AMERICAN influences on civilization , *CIVILIZATION ,FOREIGN relations of the United States -- 1865- ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,FIRST Liberian Civil War, 1989-1996 ,SECOND Liberian Civil War, 1999-2003 - Abstract
The article discusses the U.S. government's operations in Liberia from 1970 to 2003, such as helping to remove former Liberian President Charles Taylor from power. It argues that the U.S. was instrumental in removing three Liberian governments, through methods which changed from covert operations in the 1970s to overt intervention in 2003. It provides data and analysis that questions literature which ignores or marginalizes the role of external powers in the Liberian Civil War.
- Published
- 2014
37. The Peril of Imposing the Rule of Law: Lessons From Liberia.
- Author
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Compton, Jonathan
- Subjects
JUSTICE administration ,RULE of law ,CIVIL war ,ADMINISTRATIVE law reform ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article focuses on the imposition of a Western justice system in Liberia as a source of conflict. Topics discussed include the rule of law adopted by the U.S and the United Nations, the components of Liberia's formal and customary justice systems along with their strengths and weaknesses and Liberia's approach to the rule of law reform after the civil war. It also discusses Liberia's new approach focusing on strengthening the rule of law and reaching international standards.
- Published
- 2014
38. THE ACTIONS OF ONE, THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A NATION: CHARLES TAYLOR'S CONVICTION BY THE SPECIAL COURT FOR SIERRA LEONE AND ITS IMPACT ON STATE RESPONSIBILITY CLAIMS AGAINST LIBERIA.
- Author
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HARDTKE, KIMBERLY A.
- Subjects
- *
WAR crimes -- Law & legislation , *CRIMES against humanity , *ACTIONS & defenses (Law) , *LAW ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article offers information on the conviction of a Liberian politician and 22nd President of Liberia Charles Taylor by the Special Court for Sierra Leone and discusses its impact on state responsibility claims against Liberia. Topics discussed include relationship between the separate realms of individual and state responsibility, individual accountability for war crimes as per the International law, and remedies under both individual and state responsibility on crimes against humanity.
- Published
- 2013
39. Ebola and the failure of governance.
- Author
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Davies, Desmond
- Subjects
- *
EBOLA virus disease ,GUINEA politics & government ,SIERRA Leone politics & government ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The article discusses the failure of governments of Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia in dealing with the Ebola crisis, and focuses on the impact of the same on the prevalence of the disease throughout Africa as of October 2014. Topics include the governments' failure to provide timely and accurate information to their citizens, their inability to respond to the needs of citizens during the crisis, and views of nonprofit Global Financial Integrity's president Raymond Baker on the same.
- Published
- 2014
40. Liberia in 2011: still ploughing its own democratic furrow?
- Author
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Harris, David and Lewis, Tereza
- Subjects
- *
ELECTIONS , *POLITICAL parties ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The momentous 2005 Liberian elections followed a devastating civil war. Remarkably, the winner of the presidential race was a woman, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and the second-placed was a footballer, George Weah. In addition, in stark contrast to many African elections in particular those in neighbouring Sierra Leone, voting patterns were fragmented: voters often chose President, Senators and Representatives from different parties or independents. Much can be explained by a remarkably level playing-field delivered by an interim coalition government providing no incumbent. In 2011, the Johnson-Sirleaf incumbency stood to significantly change the dynamics. This article seeks to discern whether Liberian elections maintain their unusual patterns, whether Liberia has joined the ranks of African patron-clientelist, dominant-party or two-party systems, in particular compared to that of Sierra Leone, or whether there are new twists in its democratic development. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. From lords of war to leaders in society: How former Liberian warlords have used ‘old’ and ‘new’ media to self-reframe.
- Author
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O’Mahony, Geraldine and Fair, Jo Ellen
- Subjects
LIBERIAN politics & government ,POWER (Social sciences) ,NONGOVERNMENTAL organizations - Abstract
The process of post-conflict reconstruction in Liberia involves an array of actors vying for power. Many of the key political and civic figures involved are former warlords, whose reigns of terror affected many they now work with and serve. By reframing themselves through social media these warlords have created new centers of power, embracing their new roles as public servants and renouncing past acts of terrorism. This article focuses on two of Liberia’s most notorious former warlords, Prince Johnson and Joshua Blahyi. Johnson, now Senator Johnson, was best known for swilling beer while he conducted the video-taped torture of President Doe. Joshua Blahyi, formerly General Butt Naked, who infamously drank children’s blood before running naked into battle, is now a born-again preacher with his own faith-based NGO. We argue that their use of social media has enabled them to reconstruct and reframe their ‘past lives’, ensuring these cannot become political liabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. Discerning an African Post-colonial Governance Imbroglio: Colonialism, Underdevelopment and Violent Conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Liberia and Sierra Leone.
- Author
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Wong, Pak Nung
- Subjects
- *
POSTCOLONIALISM , *STATE formation , *ECONOMIC underdevelopment , *SOCIAL conflict , *IMPERIALISM , *DEMOCRATIZATION , *COMPARATIVE government ,CONGO (Democratic Republic) politics & government ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,SIERRA Leone politics & government - Abstract
By attributing recent violent conflicts in Africa to decades of underdevelopment which can be traced back to the colonial times, there is scholarly consent among pan-African scholars that the present African state is a neo-colonial construct and must be democratically reconstituted. In response to the pan-African intellectual-political project, this paper will provide a comparative historical-structural analysis of the post-colonial state formation processes in D. R. Congo, Liberia and Sierra Leone. There will be a discussion in the conclusion on the confrontation of the sub-Saharan African states with post-colonial governance imbroglio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. The Political Participation of the U.S.-Based Liberian Diaspora and Its Implication for Peace Building.
- Author
-
Antwi-Boateng, Osman
- Subjects
- *
AFRICAN diaspora , *POLITICAL change , *PRESSURE groups ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
The political participation of the U.S.-based Liberian diaspora represents an archetypical case in the debate about the role of the diaspora as conflict drivers and peacemakers. This is because the U.S.-based diaspora supported armed rebellion against the Doe and Taylor regimes. However, the postwar democratic transition in Liberia has offered the U.S.-based Liberian diaspora the space to be active political participants--which has serious implications for peace building. The political participation of the U.S.-based diaspora does not guarantee a benign outcome; nevertheless, noncontentious political activities aimed at lobbying host-country support for peace building, building rational legal institutions, and financially supporting moderate political parties instead of belligerent homeland forces bode well for peace building. In contrast, contentious politics that pitch diaspora Liberians against home-based Liberians over the issue of dual nationality, perceived diaspora dominance in public office, and diaspora corruption are counterproductive to peace building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Contested Inclusions: Pitfalls of NGO Peace-Building Activities in Liberia.
- Author
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Fuest, Veronika
- Subjects
NONGOVERNMENTAL organizations -- Social aspects ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,PEACEBUILDING ,CIVIL society - Abstract
Copyright of Africa Spectrum is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
- Published
- 2010
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
45. Making Plans for Liberia—a Trusteeship Approach to Good Governance?
- Author
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Bøås, Morten
- Subjects
- *
INTERIM governments , *INTERVENTION (International law) , *POLITICAL corruption , *INTERNATIONAL cooperation on economic policy , *CIVIL war ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Since the end of the Liberian civil war in August 2003 the international community has been 'making plans' for Liberia. However, it rarely questioned whether these plans were in accordance with the political and economic logic of the peace agreement and the subsequent transitional government. The consequence was that corruption continued and a much more intrusive economic management plan was established. The Governance and Economic Management Assistance Programme (gemap) is supposed to combat corruption and facilitate good governance, but it also limits the range of policy options for the new democratically elected government of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. The irony is that the best and most legitimate government that Liberia has ever had is subject to stronger external control than any of its predecessors. The probability that this scheme will remain sustainable when donor interest shifts elsewhere is low, and what is needed is a more pragmatic approach that draws a wider segment of Liberian society into anti-corruption management and creates checks and balances between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
46. National Integration in Liberia: An Evolving Pursuit.
- Author
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Oritsejafor, Emmanuel O.
- Subjects
- *
POLITICAL autonomy , *POLITICAL systems , *POLITICAL science & economics , *UNEMPLOYMENT , *HUMAN rights ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
After over one hundred sixty years of independence the Liberian state was close to total collapse as a result of fourteen years of civil war. The state's failure and breakdown of central authority has had debilitating social, economic, and political consequences, such as; destruction of valuable infrastructure, internal and cross -border refugee problems, unemployment, hunger and violation of human rights. The challenge for a post-conflict state such as Liberia is the consolidation of democracy and the implementation of the necessary steps required to achieve sustainable development. Thus, this study suggests that a bottom-up communitarian approach appears to be plausible in an effort to attain national integration in a post-conflict- Liberia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
47. Candles in the Wind: Resisting Repression in Liberia (1979-2003).
- Author
-
Press, Robert M.
- Subjects
- *
SOCIAL movements , *HUMAN rights movements , *PUBLIC demonstrations , *SOCIAL sciences fieldwork , *SOCIAL history -- 1970- , *SOCIAL history ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
Scholars have been extending social-movement analysis beyond its base in the industrialized West to Latin America and Asia, but rarely to Africa. Social movements resisting repression in nondemocratic settings have usually had the help of external "opportunities" or favorable circumstances. This study, however, examines a peaceful social movement in Liberia, a movement that resisted repression under two regimes, advocating for human rights and democratic freedom without such "opportunities." How did this happen? The study finds four explanations: the formation of a microsocial movement with no formal leadership and only loosely connected strands of resistance, which were harder to control; a high level of commitment by participants; the skillful use of local media and international organizations to put pressure on the regime; and historical roots of resistance, especially in the 1970s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. MANAGING POST-WAR LIBERIA: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES.
- Author
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Zounmenou, David
- Subjects
CIVIL war ,PEACE treaties ,PEACE ,WAR & society ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
After more than a decade of civil war, Liberia has embraced a new era of peacebuilding and peace consolidation. But, despite the euphoria, a number of questions persist: Will the new political elite be up to the task of rebuilding Liberia? What are the priorities of post-conflict Liberia? Who defines them? What are the mechanisms in place to address them? How far has Liberia gone in consolidating its peacebuilding process? What are the challenges ahead for the government and development partners seeking to transform a devastated Liberia into a vibrant economy and a peaceful and cohesive nation? This paper takes a look at the progress as well as the challenges associated with the reconstruction process in Liberia. In spite of the positive signs in terms of policies and institutional reforms, Liberia is still affected by numerous difficulties that could be overcome through an efficient state performance and sustainable support of the donors' community. Failure to address those difficulties is likely to compromise the gains so far realised both for Liberia and for West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2008
49. From Guerrillas to Government: post-conflict stability in Liberia, Uganda and Rwanda.
- Author
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McDonough, DavidS
- Subjects
- *
POLITICAL stability , *CIVIL war , *REVOLUTIONS ,RWANDAN politics & government ,LIBERIAN politics & government ,UGANDAN politics & government - Abstract
Post-conflict stability remains an elusive goal for many African countries. The political and socioeconomic preconditions of African civil wars have often persisted after the end of open hostilities and have frustrated regional and international efforts at peace building. The growing role of non-state armed groups in post-conflict governments raises further questions on the important role of guerilla groups in either exacerbating or ameliorating the 'structural' preconditions of protracted African wars. The cases of Liberia, Uganda and Rwanda offer important insights on the complex interplay between armed groups and governments that underlie these conflicts. All three countries have been marked by devastating civil wars and the subsequent formation of post-conflict governments led by respective insurgent groups, but only Rwanda and Uganda have made any effort to mitigate the conditions that ultimately led to intra-state violence and state collapse. While the conflict dynamic may heavily condition an insurgent group, these factors alone do not play a determining role in the success or failure of peace building efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. ROUND 2 OF THE LIBERIAN CIVIL CRISIS: US AND LIBERIA, PRESUMED HISTORICAL TIES.
- Author
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Nmoma, Veronica
- Subjects
- *
INTERNATIONAL relations , *INTERNATIONAL cooperation ,FOREIGN relations of the United States, 2001-2009 ,LIBERIAN politics & government - Abstract
This article argues that the U.S. government failed to meet the expectations of the international community and of the Liberian people, as the political and military crisis escalated in the country in 2002 and 2003, after careful analysis of the historical ties between the U.S. and Liberia. The U.S. responded at the last minute with a token force of soldiers intended to help restore peace in Liberia. The author claims the failure was due to the end of the Cold War and the loss of Africa's strategic significance in the West, and that the U.S. can still play a role in the future of Liberia and the West Africa region.
- Published
- 2006
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