By Joseph Kerkula
Liberia joined countries around the world in commemorating International Law Day 2026, a significant global observance aimed at promoting justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
The day serves as a reminder of the essential role legal systems play in maintaining order, protecting human rights, and fostering sustainable national development.
This year’s celebration was held under the theme, “Access to Justice for All: Bridging the Gap Between the Law and the People.”
The event, which took place on Friday, May 1, 2026, brought together a diverse group of legal professionals, including judges, lawyers, policymakers, and representatives from civil society organizations across Liberia.
Participants used the occasion to reflect on progress made and challenges still confronting the country’s justice system.
Delivering remarks at the program, Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay called on members of the legal profession to uphold the integrity and independence of the judiciary.
He stressed that justice must never be selective, but rather accessible to all Liberians regardless of their social or economic status.
According to Chief Justice Gbeisay, legal practitioners have a responsibility not only to interpret the law but also to defend fairness and equality.
He urged lawyers to remain committed to serving as voices for the voiceless, emphasizing that the strength of any justice system is measured by how effectively it protects the most vulnerable members of society.
He further highlighted that a credible and independent judiciary is fundamental to national development.
“No country can achieve sustainable progress without a justice system that ensures accountability and equal protection under the law,” he noted, while encouraging judicial actors to resist undue influence and uphold professional ethics at all times.
The Chief Justice also underscored the importance of accountability within the legal sector, urging practitioners to actively report and resist acts of malpractice.
He stated that transparency and ethical conduct are key to restoring and maintaining public confidence in Liberia’s justice system.
Also speaking at the occasion, former Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Yuoh delivered the keynote address, where she emphasized the need to strengthen the rule of law as a foundation for democracy and national stability.
She described access to justice as a fundamental right and a critical driver of inclusive governance.
Madam Yuoh called on legal practitioners to demonstrate high standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.
The former Chief Justice noted that rebuilding public trust in the judiciary requires sustained commitment and collective action from all stakeholders within the justice sector.
She further pointed out that bridging the gap between the law and the people requires collaboration among the judiciary, the Liberia National Bar Association, government institutions, and civil society organizations.
Ensuring that legal services are accessible, affordable, and understandable to ordinary citizens, she said, remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the country.
The former Chief Justice stressed that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done and explained further that public perception plays a crucial role in strengthening trust in legal institutions, noting that citizens are more likely to have confidence in a system they believe is fair, transparent, and inclusive.
The observance of International Law Day in Liberia reaffirms the country’s commitment to advancing the rule of law, protecting human rights, and expanding access to justice.
