NEW YORK – Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called for renewed global commitment to multilateralism, climate justice, and reforms of the international financial and security systems, as he addressed world leaders Tuesday at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Speaking under the theme “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development, and Human Rights,” President Boakai said the credibility of the UN depends on unity and cooperation at a time when the world faces unprecedented crises, including wars, terrorism, climate change, and widening inequalities.
“Reversal of multilateralism is not an option for a just and peaceful world,” Boakai declared. “The credibility of the United Nations depends on our ability to act together in the service of humanity, rather than apart in the pursuit of narrow interests.”
Liberia Secures Historic UNSC Seat
The president highlighted Liberia’s election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2026–2027 — the country’s first full tenure since signing the UN Charter 80 years ago. He stressed that Liberia’s seat “belongs to Africa,” pledging to push for fairer continental representation and to share Liberia’s lessons in peacebuilding and democratic transition.
Calls for Peace in Ukraine and Middle East
On global conflicts, Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s support for dialogue and peaceful resolution. He endorsed mediation efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war and reiterated support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“Rising from the ruins of civil war, Liberia knows all too well the human cost of conflict and the importance of peace,” he said, noting his country’s three peaceful transitions of power since 2003.
Climate Justice and Debt Reform
Turning to climate change, the Liberian leader said it is already devastating lives in his country, with rising seas and extreme weather threatening communities and food security.
“We urge urgent implementation of the Paris Agreement, full capitalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, and greater global investment in adaptation and mitigation,” Boakai told the Assembly. “Above all, we call for Climate Justice—those who contribute the least to this crisis should not be forced to suffer the most.”
He also criticized an “outdated and unjust” international financial system, calling for urgent reforms that would ease debt burdens on developing nations and enable fairer financing for sustainable development.
Liberia’s National Agenda
At home, Boakai outlined his government’s ARREST Agenda—focusing on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation/Health, and Tourism/Technology. He said the plan aligns with Liberia’s Vision 2030 of becoming a lower-middle-income country.
Boakai also reaffirmed his government’s anti-corruption drive and commitment to national reconciliation, including his renewed call for international support to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court.
A Call for UN Reform
The president said the UN must adapt to remain relevant. He endorsed the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, while stressing that “using outdated 1945 solutions to tackle 2025 challenges is neither reasonable nor realistic.”
Commitment to Peace and Human Rights
Concluding his address, President Boakai pledged Liberia’s role as “a bridge to peace, a development partner, and a defender of human rights.”
“Over the next 80 years, we will continue to honor the promise of 1945 by renewing our commitment to a world where peace is just, development is inclusive, and dignity is universal,” he said.
