The civil war in Liberia ended in 2003. Since then, development work has been based on rebuilding the infrastructure. Sida has provided support to the rebuilding work, mostly through the UN and Liberia Dujar. Many smaller projects have brought concrete results.
Roads to markets have improved, new markets have been established and bridges have been rebuilt. Thousands of children have been given new opportunities in 69 new schools. Local government officials have been educated in their democratic responsibilities. These are important steps in recreating services in rural areas.
Women highly vulnerable
Médecins Sans Frontières is receiving support for its work in improving women’s health. Sexually-related violence is very common. Rape has long since been the most common crime in Liberia and the one that is most often reported to the police. Sweden is therefore prioritizing efforts against sexually-related violence and, together with the Liberian government and six UN bodies, is contributing SEK 20 million for supportive measures. This initiative will support victims by offering sheltered accommodation, access to therapy and advice, as well as working preventatively through information campaigns. The total support is about SEK 100 million.
Many crimes against human rights were committed during the war. Sweden has provided support to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which has been working to bring those responsible to justice.
By tradition, a small minority holds the power in Liberia. All the power remains in the cities and the rural areas are underdeveloped. The lack of popular participation and economic injustices are creating problems.
In our development strategy, we are supporting democratic development and human rights. Power must be divided between more groups and become decentralized, and democratic structures need to be built.
The majority of the country’s population provide for themselves through farming and fishing. Farming will be improved to provide higher returns. Investments in vocational training and adult education will increase trade both within the country and internationally, with the purpose of improving the ability of poor people to increase their incomes.
Coordinating donor contributions
A stable Liberia is a fundamental condition for the country to be able to write off its debts from The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. Our contributions must therefore strengthen peace and democracy.
Our development assistance to Liberia will go through the Liberian government, common donor funds for development cooperation and international organizations.
