–To strengthen partnership in advancing women’s rights and human rights advocacy in Liberia
Monrovia, Liberia – The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) welcomed Ambassador Gerald Considine of Ireland and his team to their office on Lynch Street, on October 31, 2024, in what the Association characterized as a substantial engagement aimed at strengthening partnerships in advancing women’s rights and human rights advocacy in Liberia.
During the meeting, Ambassador Considine expressed his admiration for AFELL’s impactful work in the country, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing critical issues such as human rights violations, sexual and gender-based violence, human trafficking, and harmful traditional practices. He acknowledged AFELL’s commitment to advocating for gender-sensitive legal reforms and enhancing women’s political participation.
AFELL’s leadership, including President Atty. Philomena T. Williams and Vice President Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley reiterated the organization’s mission to promote and protect the rights of women, children, and marginalized individuals in Liberia. They highlighted several notable achievements made possible through partnerships and support from various stakeholders. These accomplishments include the establishment of a Juvenile Court, the passage of an inheritance law, amendments to the New Penal Law of Liberia concerning the definition of rape, the creation of Criminal Court E, and the formation of a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) unit within the Ministry of Justice.
Despite these achievements, AFELL leaders outlined the ongoing challenges the organization faces in executing its mission effectively. They appealed to Ambassador Considine for continued support, particularly for a forthcoming conference organized by transitional justice and civil society actors. This conference aims to draft recommendations for submission to the Office of War and Economic Crimes (WECC).
In response, Ambassador Considine affirmed Ireland’s commitment to supporting AFELL’s initiatives. He emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including human rights, gender equality, accountability, women’s political participation, health, climate change, and fellowship. The Ambassador also pledged financial support for the planned conference, reinforcing Ireland’s dedication to fostering positive change in Liberia.
Atty. Philomena Williams expressed profound gratitude to Ambassador Considine and the Irish government for their ongoing support, which has included scholarships for AFELL members to pursue studies in Ireland. She emphasized the importance of such partnerships in empowering women and advancing justice in Liberia.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together to address the pressing issues facing women and marginalized communities in Liberia, paving the way for a more equitable and just society.
The gathering included key AFELL leadership figures, such as the Chairperson and Co-Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Cllr. Rosemarie James and Cllr. Felicia Coleman, respectively.
