-As he Addresses the UN General Assembly
By Jerromie S. Walters
New York, September 25, 2024 – In his address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Liberia’s President Joseph Nyuma Boakai emphasized the need for global unity and collaborative action to tackle pressing issues such as poverty, climate change, and security challenges. Speaking before world leaders and dignitaries at the UN headquarters in New York, President Boakai marked his first address as president, following Liberia’s recent democratic transition.
Reflecting on Liberia’s historical commitment to the United Nations, Boakai recalled the nation’s role as one of the original signatories of the UN Charter in 1945. He posed a poignant question regarding the fulfillment of the UN’s mission to uphold human dignity and promote social progress, urging a reevaluation of strategies in light of contemporary challenges, including economic inequality, drug trafficking, and climate change.
“The world has changed, and the frontiers we now embrace are different,” he stated. Boakai called for a reassessment of the UN’s institutional frameworks to better address these evolving global realities.
Under the theme “Unity in Diversity for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Everyone Everywhere,” the president highlighted the importance of embracing diversity to foster peace and development. He reiterated Liberia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and outlined the government’s ARREST Agenda, which aims to address the socio-economic needs of the population, particularly the youth.
Despite significant progress in rebuilding Liberia post-conflict, Boakai acknowledged that over half of the population still lives below the poverty line. He emphasized the government’s dedication to eradicating poverty and improving access to essential services, as well as addressing maternal and newborn mortality rates.
Moreover, President Boakai revealed Liberia’s establishment of the Office for the War and Economic Crimes Courts, a move aimed at promoting accountability and reconciliation following years of civil strife. He called for international support in the pursuit of justice for victims of past human rights violations.
Addressing the alarming drug crisis affecting Liberia’s youth, President Boakai declared it a national security threat and urged the international community to collaborate in combating this epidemic.
As he discussed global issues, Boakai expressed concern over escalating security challenges in West Africa, including terrorism and political instability. He underscored the need for dialogue and cooperation among West African nations and reiterated Liberia’s commitment to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
On the international stage, he called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East to facilitate humanitarian relief and urged negotiations for lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. He also highlighted the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a threat to global peace, advocating for a peaceful resolution that respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The Liberian Leader went on to announce Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2026 and sought the support of member states to promote peace, justice, and security on a global scale. He reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to multilateralism and the principles of shared values, emphasizing the importance of building a future that is equitable and dignified for all.
“ONE UN, ONE WORLD,” he concluded, calling for collective efforts to realize a more peaceful and sustainable world.
President Boakai congratulated H.E. Philemon Yangon on his election as President of the General Assembly and commended the leadership of former President Dennis Francis. He expressed gratitude to UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his visionary guidance in promoting global cooperation.
