GC, Ducor Institute Host One-Day Policy Dialogue on the Significance of the War and Economic Crimes Court

The Governance Commission (GC), in partnership with the Ducor Institute, will host a one-day policy dialogue on the significance of the War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia. This landmark event marks the inauguration of a joint engagement series launched under a Memorandum of Understanding for a strategic partnership that aims to advance evidence-based research, facilitate joint policy dialogues, and advocate for impactful public policy reforms. The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Ocean Club Residence, 5th Street, Sinkor, beginning at 9:00 A.M. It will bring together members of the diplomatic corps, senior officials from all three branches of government, youth and student leaders, and experts across public and private sectors—underscoring its national relevance and diverse stakeholder participation. The Acting Chair of the Governance Commission, Alaric K. Tokpa, will deliver a special statement underscoring the Commission’s position regarding the War and Economic Crime Courts, while Dr. Aaron Weah, Executive Director of the Ducor Institute, will present research-driven analysis that contextualizes Liberia’s transitional justice efforts and explores comparative models from post-conflict societies. The panel includes distinguished legal and academic figures: Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris-Allison, former Chief Justice; Dr. Jallah Barbu, Executive Director of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court and professor of constitutional law; and Cllr. Tiawon Gongloe, professor of human rights and transitional justice. Their perspectives will guide discussions on the legal foundations of the court, the role of archives and evidence collection, and the participation of victims and ordinary Liberians in the pursuit of criminal accountability. The GC–Ducor initiative seeks to encourage informed public engagement and critical reflection on justice, memory, and reconciliation. Through this collaborative platform, the Governance Commission and the Ducor Institute reaffirm their commitment to shaping Liberia’s future through transparent dialogue and enduring reform.