Liberia-Australia
Relationship Network Incorporated
HISTORY
Liberia, a country on the west coast of Africa, has seen several past presidents who have played significant roles in shaping the nation's history and development. Each leader has left behind a unique legacy and achieved notable accomplishments during their tenure. In this summary, we will highlight the most prominent achievements of each past president of Liberia within a limit of 500 words.
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Joseph Jenkins Roberts (1848-1856, 1872-1876): Joseph Jenkins Roberts, Liberia's first president and a prominent figure in the country's founding, successfully established Liberia as an independent republic in 1847. During his presidency, he focused on stabilizing the newly formed nation, improving governance structures, and securing international recognition for Liberia's sovereignty. Roberts also played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic relations with various European powers and the United States, which helped Liberia gain diplomatic recognition and secure trade agreements.
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William V. S. Tubman (1944-1971): Under the leadership of President William V. S. Tubman, Liberia experienced a period of economic growth and stability. Tubman implemented a series of economic reforms that attracted foreign investment, expanded infrastructure development, and established the Freeport of Monrovia. His policies aimed at encouraging foreign investment and stimulating economic growth helped Liberia become one of the most prosperous nations in Africa during that time.
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William R. Tolbert Jr. (1971-1980): President William R. Tolbert Jr. focused on social and educational reforms during his tenure. He implemented policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, expanding access to education, and promoting rural development. Tolbert initiated infrastructure projects, such as the construction of roads and schools, to improve living conditions across the country. Additionally, his government worked to strengthen Liberia's relationship with neighboring countries and played an active role in regional organizations like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
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Samuel K. Doe (1980-1990): Samuel K. Doe came to power through a military coup and subsequently became the head of state. His administration focused on centralizing power and implementing policies to address corruption and inefficiency. Doe's government initiated infrastructure projects, improved healthcare services, and expanded access to education. However, his tenure was marred by political instability and allegations of human rights abuses.
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Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (2006-2018): Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history as the first female president in Africa and received international recognition for her leadership. Her presidency was characterized by efforts to rebuild Liberia after the devastating civil war. Sirleaf implemented economic reforms, attracting foreign investment, and prioritizing infrastructure development. She also focused on improving governance, combating corruption, and promoting gender equality. Sirleaf's leadership during the Ebola crisis garnered praise, as her administration effectively managed the outbreak and successfully contained its spread.
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George Weah (2018-present): George Weah, a former professional footballer, became Liberia's president in 2018. His presidency has seen efforts to combat corruption, improve healthcare, and promote education. Weah's government launched initiatives to enhance access to quality education, particularly for vulnerable populations. He has also prioritized infrastructure development and sought to attract foreign investment to spur economic growth.
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Each past president of Liberia has made a unique contribution to the nation's progress and faced various challenges during their tenure. Their achievements span from establishing Liberia as an independent republic to promoting economic growth, improving governance, and addressing social issues. Although each leader had their own set of accomplishments, Liberia's journey towards prosperity and stability remains an ongoing endeavour
Background and Justifications
Liberia, established in 1847, holds a unique place in history as Africa's oldest republic. Founded by freed African-American slaves, it symbolizes a remarkable journey towards self-governance and independence. Despite facing challenges, including political instability and civil wars, Liberia has made significant strides in recent decades. With a diverse cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and beautiful landscapes, the nation stands as a testament to resilience and the pursuit of liberty. Today, Liberia continues to strive for progress, fostering economic growth and nurturing a spirit of unity among its people.
The Liberian Civil War, which spanned from 1989 to 2003, was a devastating conflict marked by political instability, ethnic tensions, and widespread violence. Triggered by economic inequality and political corruption, rebel factions led by Charles Taylor and various warlords fought against the government, resulting in a high death toll and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. The war finally ended with a peace agreement and the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces. Liberia continues to recover from the war's legacy and strive for stability and development.
Since 2001 the arrival of Liberian refugees into Australia has been increasingly growing in births and more new arrivals. Almost 3,100 Liberians were living in Australia with the majority arriving under the UNHCR (Special Humanitarian Program) as refugees. By 2 Oct 2012 recorded statistics until now (2023) is obvious the number of Liberia migrants in Australia has unquestionably increased to over approximately 12,400 Liberians living in Australia.
Identified to these positive increases were some barriers that needed the careful attention of LARN to assist Liberia migrants to improving the smooth integration of our culture into the Australian culture and laws.
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Many Liberian migrants including those who are now Australian citizens migrating from Liberia were off school ages. Some were High School graduates; while some were Elementary, junior high and Secondary dropped out. Some are practically trained in specific jobs with little or no enlightening theories.
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2016
LARN is Established
In 2016 LARN was established to:
a. Assist people by providing training to address specific issues and challenges they might be facing with their family affairs, employment, schools in the absence of their parents/ guardians, next of kin and community-based services.
b. Empower Liberians to exercise their rights and be included within their local communities and Local Councils, by providing information, advice and referral or direct support and representation, usually on an agreed short-term basis.
2019:
LARN International purpose
In 2019 LARN began to promote bilateral Relationship between Australia and Liberia, empowering Liberia migrants with some levels of cultural practices, respecting the laws of Australia, seeking resource personnel for training and conducting community awareness forum within the seven States and Territories of Australia and the Republic of Liberia.
Solely to:
a. Lobbying the governments of Australia and Liberia to establish bilateral diplomatic relationship that will lead to Liberia Consular Services in any convenient city of Australia.
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b. Provide advocacy and support to any Liberian age group and their families who are considered eligible to deserve or receive desirable facility or services in Australia.
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We strongly believe that bilateral relationship, integration, education, health, trade, infrastructure, travel, security and protection between the both countries are very important to us, our people and the governments of Liberia and Australia. Liberia stands to gain greater benefits from the people and government of Australia. Liberia has the potential to reciprocate to this intended bilateral relationship.
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L to R: J Nicholas Podier, Thomas G Quiwonkpa, Samuel K Doe, Thomas Weh Syen, Jacob Sweh, Swen Dixon, & Nelson B Toe
Current: Armed Forces of Liberia - AFL
The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has achieved remarkable accomplishments, standing as a source of national pride.
Overcoming significant challenges, the AFL has successfully undergone comprehensive restructuring, professionalization, and capacity building. Through rigorous training programs, strategic partnerships, and dedication, the AFL has transformed into a highly capable and disciplined force, promoting peace, stability, and security within Liberia's borders.
Today, the AFL upholds its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty, providing humanitarian assistance, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts, earning admiration and respect from its citizens and the global community.