In Liberia, as in many parts of the world, children are at the center of family life. On this International Day of Families, we celebrate the importance of relationships. Behind every thriving child is someone who has made them feel safe, valued, and believed in. These bonds form the foundation of strong families and, by extension, strong communities and societies.
However, we must also address the glaring inequities that affect Liberian families at every level, including income disparity, lack of quality and access to basic social services, and insufficient family income. Economic decline before and after the Ebola outbreak in 2014, as well as the COVID-19 outbreak in 2022, have worsened the pre-existing challenges families face in Liberia, making it increasingly difficult for them to provide for their children.
Over the past two decades, there has been a notable increase in the number of street children and children living in street situations. A 2022 survey by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and UNICEF estimates that over 366,000 children in Liberia are currently living in street situations.
In addition, according to the World Food Programme (WFP), approximately 47% of the Liberian population suffers from food insecurity. Factors like climate change and recurring conflicts have contributed to this level of food insecurity.
Supporting families through income-generating activities, as well as capacity building, and positive parenting—while also enabling children to attend school—is the quickest and most effective way to strengthen families.
Therefore, as the world approaches the Second World Summit for Social Development in 2025, our campaign, “This is What Family Means,” amplifies the global call to prioritize families in sustainable development efforts.
Integrated child and social protection policies are essential to prevent separation, promote mental health, and support caregivers. Because when families are supported, children thrive. These relationships are not only protective; they are foundational to well-being, particularly for children and young people. This year’s theme is “Family-Oriented Policies for Sustainable Development: Towards the Second World Summit for Social Development.”
Subsequently, there is an urgent need for the Government of Liberia, policymakers, and stakeholders to provide more support and transformative innovations aimed at the rapid expansion of social protection. We must create a safe and loving environment for every child.
“Strong families build strong societies. As families face rising pressures—from conflict to climate shocks—we urge governments to invest in what matters most: secure relationships and the systems that sustain them. Every child deserves someone who believes in them,” Says Elber Nosolini, Acting National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Liberia.
At SOS Children’s Villages, family is not just where you grow up. It’s where you’re seen, heard, and believed in.
“A caring adult or family can change a life. The power of connection heals, strengthens, and inspires resilience,” Nosolini added.
