Liberia Country Report
Liberia is a developing country in West Africa that has experienced more than a decade of relative stability and peace after the end of two devastating civil wars. Under Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Africa’s first democratically elected female head of state, Liberia was able to negotiate debt relief and lift sanctions, and the country’s growth prospects improved. Despite this, the country remains extremely poor and underdeveloped, and incumbent President George Weah is expected to face significant challenges in continuing the country’s recovery.
Basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and communication networks are often in poor condition or completely non-existent. Poverty remains widespread and has been exacerbated by the impacts associated with COVID-19. Endemic corruption and rampant crime continue to hamper economic growth and foreign investment, which has been hit by the twin shocks of the Ebola outbreak and the recent collapse in commodity prices. Violent crime, health concerns, and poor infrastructure are the main security threats that immigrants face. There are also concerns about the government’s ability to fully address the country’s security challenges after the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) handed over security responsibilities to the national army in 2016.
Last updated: April 11, 2022
Security
The improved prospects for peace and stability in Liberia and neighboring countries have significantly reduced the likelihood of intra- and inter-state conflicts seen in the past. There are no known terrorist groups operating in Liberia, but the country’s limited security capacities and reduced UN peacekeeping forces make it vulnerable to potential attacks.
Due to widespread poverty and limited employment prospects, there is a significant risk of petty and violent crime. Civil wars occur frequently due to socio-economic grievances or political upheavals and can quickly turn violent.
Last updated: July 18, 2023
Infrastructure
There are concerns about air travel.
Road travel is dangerous and accidents are common.
Ports are considered relatively efficient.
Liberia’s energy and communications infrastructure is still underdeveloped and has suffered much damage and destruction during the civil war.
The country is considered an attractive target for cyber attacks. It is believed that the defense against such attacks is weak.
Last updated: April 3, 2023
Environment
Flooding is common during the rainy season from May to October. Concerns about unexploded ordnance from the Civil War remain.
Last updated: March 15, 2022
Health and Medical
Liberia was declared free of Ebola in June 2016 and no new cases have been reported since then. However, the country is prone to many insect-borne diseases. Limited health services and facilities have been exacerbated by the Ebola outbreak, and basic care standards remain.
Last updated: February 24, 2022
Political
Liberia has achieved considerable stability since the end of the civil war (2023). The first transfer of power in 2017 was a turning point in the country’s political history. However, widespread poverty (half of the population lives below the poverty line) and the government’s inability to provide essential services remain significant challenges.
Last updated: July 19, 2023