Liberians support free cross-border movement for trade and employment within West Africa yet strongly oppose allowing foreign job seekers and refugees. A majority of Liberians support free cross-border movement for trade and employment within West Africa yet strongly oppose allowing foreign job seekers and refugees into the country, according to the latest Afrobarometer Round 10 survey.
The data highlights a sharp contradiction in public sentiment. While more than half of the respondents believe immigration benefits the national economy, large majorities simultaneously advocate for reducing or completely banning entry for foreign nationals seeking work and asylum.
This protectionist stance persists even though international migrants account for just two percent of Liberia’s population, with the vast majority originating from neighboring West African states.
At the same time, the survey underscores severe economic frustration and a deepening brain drain. A majority of Liberians have considered emigrating to seek better financial opportunities abroad, with North America, Australia, and Europe ranking as the top desired destinations.
This urge to leave is exceptionally high among the country’s most vital demographics, including more than three-quarters of young, highly educated, and currently employed citizens.
These conflicting public attitudes present a complex challenge for the Liberian government. While the state has recently committed to regional integration frameworks through Economic Community of West African States) and the African Continental Free Trade Area to boost commerce, it must now balance these international policies against intense domestic anxiety over jobs and livelihoods in a fragile post-conflict economy.
–ChannelAfrica–
