The Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia (OWECC-L), Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu has underscored the critical role women continue to play in advancing justice, peace, accountability, and national transformation in Liberia.
Dr. Barbu made the remark on Monday, 25 May 2026, about the re-launch of the PeaceGen Project, organized by Kvinna Till Kvinna in collaboration with WONGOSOL, with support from the European Union, held at Fish Market, Old Road.
The project under the theme “strengthen sustainable in-country capacities for effective conflict management and peacebuilding" seeks to strengthen women and youth participation in peacebuilding, transitional justice, and inclusive governance in Liberia.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Barbu praised Liberian women for their resilience and unwavering commitment to sustaining communities and promoting peace throughout the country’s difficult history.
“I want to acknowledge the contributions of the women in this country; if women had not stood for our systems and communities, Liberia would not be what it is today,” he stated.
The OWECC-L Executive Director reminded Liberians that women have consistently served as the backbone of Liberia’s peace and reconciliation efforts, noting that their sacrifices and leadership remain essential to the country’s pursuit of justice and accountability.
According to him, achieving lasting justice and accountability in Liberia requires inclusive participation, especially from women and young people who are often at the center of community peacebuilding efforts.
Dr. Barbu further challenged young people to take active ownership of Liberia’s democratic future by engaging in governance and national decision-making beyond election periods.
Touching on Liberia’s ongoing transitional justice efforts, Dr. Barbu reaffirmed that the proposed establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the National Anti-Corruption Court is intended to benefit all Liberians, not just a select few.
“The establishment of these courts is not for me or for a small group of people. It is for Liberia, and every Liberian is a stakeholder in the process,” he stressed.
He called on Liberians, especially women and youth, to remain engaged, fearless, and vocal in advocating for justice, transparency, and accountability.
