On October 30, 2024, the Center for Economic Crimes & Security Studies (CESS) hosted a pivotal one-day Roundtable Discussion focused on terrorism and violent extremism within the Mano River Union countries, with a particular emphasis on Liberia. The event, conducted in a local hotel in Monrovia, drew the participation of key stakeholders, including Heads and Representatives from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), youth and student groups, as well as representatives from security institutions and government ministries. With the aim of enhancing knowledge and understanding related to preventing these critical issues, the discussion provided a platform for prominent Liberians with expertise in law enforcement, security, and related fields to offer insights on how the region can effectively combat terrorism and violent extremism.
Cllr. Boakai N. Kanneh, the Chairman of the Law Reform Commission, delivered notable remarks emphasizing the significance of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and the rule of law among the Liberian populace. He stated that creating reliable socioeconomic opportunities for all individuals—irrespective of age, status, religion, or ethnicity—would be instrumental in countering the growth of violent extremism. According to Cllr. Kanneh, societal exclusion, deprivation, and marginalization serve as significant catalysts for violence, thereby presenting a challenge to national and regional stability. His presentation called for a concerted effort to foster an inclusive society aimed at reducing the factors that lead to extremism.
Another key contributor to the discussion was Lawrence A. Yealue, the Country Director of Accountability Lab-Liberia, who reinforced the message on the importance of economic opportunities. Yealue identified the lack of education, job prospects, and access to resources as critical influencers of violence and extremism in Liberia. He urged stakeholders to prioritize urgent initiatives geared toward providing jobs and educational empowerment to the population, asserting that equipping Liberians with self-reliance would enable them to compete effectively within the wider sub-region. Central to his call was the idea that addressing economic disparities is fundamental to mitigating violent extremism.
Rev. Gardea Johnson, Senior Pastor of the Restoration Baptist Church, echoed sentiments regarding the urgent need for economic empowerment among Liberians. He observed a troubling trend where marginalized groups within Liberia have been overlooked in favor of foreign interests, underscoring how economic disparity can lead to vulnerability and disenfranchisement, subsequently heightening the risk of radicalization. The discussions highlighted how empowering communities through socioeconomic initiatives can create resilience against the allure of extremist ideologies.
The roundtable event significantly enhanced participants’ comprehension of the multifaceted approaches necessary for countering terrorism and violent extremism. Interactive panel discussions provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and develop collective strategies for addressing these issues effectively. The collaborative nature of the sessions fostered a sense of shared responsibility among attendees, illustrating the importance of unifying efforts towards a common goal of promoting stability and peace in Liberia.
Finally, the Center for Economic Crimes and Security Studies— a not-for-profit organization with nearly two decades of experience in economic crime and security—has commenced projects supported by the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA). This roundtable constitutes one of several initiatives focused on counter-terrorism and combating violent extremism across the Mano River Basin. By securing a grant from ECOWAS through GIABA, CESS is positioned to engage and mobilize citizens, creating a grassroots movement aimed at safeguarding against the threats of violent extremism and terrorism in the region. This ongoing commitment to education and community engagement is critical for building resilience and defending democratic values in Liberia and beyond.
