A high-powered delegation of transitional justice experts has engaged in critical discussions with the Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L) as efforts intensify towards the establishment of a court focused on prosecuting war crimes and economic offenses.
On January 20, 2025, Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu welcomed the delegation, urging collaborative support from both multinational and local organizations, including donor countries, the Independent National Human Rights Commission, and various civil society groups.
Dr. Barbu outlined how the involvement of these stakeholders is setting the stage for further consultations aimed at establishing the court.
“The reception from these stakeholders marks a significant step towards the embellishment of the court,” he stated, highlighting ongoing discussions with the Liberian National Bar Association and the Law Reform Commission to resolve legal challenges that could hinder the establishment of a hybrid court.
According to Dr. Barbu, the ambitious goal is to establish both a War Crimes Court and an Anti-Corruption Court before the end of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s administration. This initiative is seen as a crucial pillar in Liberia’s path to justice and accountability for the scars left by years of civil conflict.
“Engaging with members of this delegation is vital for reaffirming our office’s commitment to addressing the legacies of war and economic crimes transparently and constructively, while also adhering to international justice standards,” Dr. Barbu added.
The delegation, led by advisor Katherine Southwick, is in Liberia to assess the capacity and challenges faced by the OWECC-L in overseeing the establishment of a special court. This visit aims to identify ways in which the Center for Justice and Accountability (CJA) can assist in achieving the court’s mandate.
“We recognize the funding challenges facing the office,” Southwick acknowledged, encouraging Dr. Barbu to continue outreach efforts despite the slow or insufficient fundraising for such initiatives. “Your commitment and persistent engagement can yield positive outcomes in the long run.”
The delegation praised OWECC-L’s proactive approach to engaging with Victims Protection Advocacy Groups, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing witness protection as key to encouraging fair trials and ensuring that individuals can testify without fear of intimidation or harassment.
The delegation includes notable figures such as Ambassador Stephen Rapp, former prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), and members from various relevant organizations, indicating a strong international interest in Liberia’s transitional justice efforts. Their visit, which will extend until January 25, 2025, includes planned meetings with Liberian judicial actors and advocacy groups.
