Liberian President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. has reaffirmed Liberia’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, announcing a bold US$$8.3 billion development agenda during his address at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Speaking on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, President Boakai said Liberia is transitioning “from pledges to results,” with a national agenda that places women, youth, education, and health at its core.
“Our Agenda for Inclusive Development, valued at US$$8.3 billion, is not just a policy, it is a blueprint for transforming the lives of women and girls across Liberia,” President Boakai declared.
He pledged a zero-tolerance policy on gender-based violence, a permanent ban on harmful traditional practices, and announced the upcoming launch of a National Action Plan for Young Women and Girls aimed at breaking systemic barriers to equality.
The President highlighted key ongoing initiatives such as the Liberia Women Empowerment Project (LWEP) and the REALISE Project, both of which are designed to enhance the socioeconomic status of Liberian women and expand opportunities for their active participation in national development.
In a significant policy shift, President Boakai also emphasized that Liberia’s new seat on the United Nations Security Council would be used to amplify the voices of women and youth in global peace and security discussions.
“As Liberia assumes its seat on the UN Security Council, we will ensure women’s and youth voices shape the global peace and security agenda,” he affirmed.
The address marks a defining moment in Liberia’s post-conflict recovery journey, aligning national priorities with global commitments toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
President Boakai’s speech has received commendations from international delegates and advocacy groups, who praised Liberia’s renewed focus on inclusive governance and meaningful reforms for women and girls.
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