What's happened
Liberia's President Joseph Boakai has signed an executive order to establish a war crimes court, marking a significant step towards justice for victims of the country's two civil wars. The court aims to address the atrocities committed during the conflicts, including mass killings, torture, and conscription of child soldiers.
Why it matters
The establishment of the war crimes court in Liberia is a crucial development in addressing the legacy of violence and impunity from the civil wars. It signifies a commitment to accountability and justice, providing closure for victims and their families. The court's creation also sets a precedent for holding perpetrators accountable and promoting reconciliation in post-conflict societies.
What the papers say
The New York Times and The Independent both highlight the long-awaited establishment of the war crimes court in Liberia, emphasizing the significance of bringing justice to victims of the civil wars. The Independent provides insights into the widespread atrocities committed during the conflicts, underscoring the importance of addressing war crimes. The Guardian and The Independent report on the international arrest warrant issued for the Central African Republic's ex-President Bozize, shedding light on the efforts to hold individuals accountable for human rights abuses.
How we got here
Liberia's civil wars from 1989 to 2003 resulted in an estimated 250,000 deaths and widespread human rights violations, including massacres, rape, and child soldier recruitment. The lack of accountability for these crimes led to calls for a war crimes court to prosecute those responsible. President Boakai's executive order paves the way for addressing the atrocities and seeking justice for the victims.
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Why did Liberia's President Joseph Boakai establish a war crimes court?
Liberia's President Joseph Boakai's decision to establish a war crimes court marks a significant step towards justice for victims of the country's civil wars. This move aims to address the atrocities committed during the conflicts, including mass killings, torture, and conscription of child soldiers. The establishment of the war crimes court signifies a commitment to accountability and justice, providing closure for victims and their families.
More on these topics
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Joseph Nyumah Boakai is a Liberian politician who served as Vice President of Liberia from 2006 to 2018, serving under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Previously, he served as Minister of Agriculture from 1983 to 1985.
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Liberia, officially the Republic of Liberia, is a country on the West African coast. It is bordered by Sierra Leone to its northwest, Guinea to its north, Côte d’Ivoire to its east, and the Atlantic Ocean to its south-southwest.