By: Joseph Kerkula
More than forty Liberian journalists from Montserrado and Margibi Counties have concluded a two-day capacity-building and refresher workshop focused on transitional justice reporting.
The training, held in Monrovia from August 20–21, 2025, brought together a diverse group of participants, including members of civil society organizations, victims of Liberia’s 14-years civil conflict, representatives from the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court, and high-ranking government officials.
Among the notable attendees was the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Colonel Gregory Coleman, who participated in discussions centered on the rule of law enforcement in upholding justice and accountability in post-conflict societies.
The workshop aimed to enhance journalists’ capacity to report on transitional justice issues with accuracy, sensitivity, and a strong ethical foundation.
Participants engaged in sessions covering truth-telling, victim-centered storytelling, legal processes, and the broader peacebuilding agenda.
Speaking at the training, Swedish Ambassador Karl Bäckeus and European Union Ambassador Nona Deprez emphasized the vital role journalists play in Liberia’s journey toward justice and reconciliation.
They underscored the importance of media in promoting truth-telling, supporting victims’ voices, and ensuring transparency in the country’s accountability process.
“Europe’s experience has shown the world that addressing justice is essential to peacebuilding,” said Ambassador Deprez. “We believe that a free and professional media is a key driver of the truth and reconciliation process in Liberia.”
Ambassador Bäckeus echoed similar sentiments, stating that journalists are not just observers but active contributors to national healing through their storytelling and investigative work.
The training marked a significant step forward in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court and to ensure that the atrocities committed during the civil war are acknowledged, addressed, and prevented from recurring.
Meanwhile, The workshop was supported by international partners committed to promoting justice and accountability in Liberia.
