National Dialogue Calls for Stronger Actions to Advance Women's Leadership in Local Governance and Peacebuilding

Stakeholders from government institutions, civil society organizations, traditional leadership structures, Peace Huts, development partners, and women's networks convened at the Ministry of Local Government for the National Dialogue on Women's Leadership in Local Governance and Peacebuilding. The dialogue, organized by the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) and Sister Aid Liberia with technical support from UN Women under the Government of Ireland-funded programme, provided a platform to review progress, identify persistent barriers, and strengthen commitments to advancing women's participation in leadership and peacebuilding across Liberia. 

The dialogue highlighted significant progress achieved under the programme, which has supported women leaders, Peace Hut members, Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET) members, and women-led organizations since 2021. Evidence presented during the forum shows that the number of women holding leadership positions across six project counties increased by 44 percent, from 66 to 95 women leaders. Despite this progress, women remain underrepresented in local government appointments and traditional leadership positions, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and institutional reforms

Speaking at the event, Prof. Alaric Tokpah, Head of the Governance Commission, emphasized the critical role women play in leadership and peacebuilding.

“From the family to the community, we are aware of the crucial role that women play in peacebuilding. We need to craft systems that encourage women to lead, govern, and contribute meaningfully to our national development. The Governance Commission remains committed to promoting civic education and gender equality, and we encourage all Liberians to support constitutional reforms that strengthen women’s inclusion in governance.”

Representing the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court, Attorney Vivian Neal shared the importance of women's participation in transitional justice and peacebuilding processes.

“Our work focuses on transitional justice and peacebuilding, and our processes are inclusive, ensuring women have the opportunity for their voices to be heard.”

Cllr. Tonia Wiles of WANEP commended the Peace Hut Network for its sustained role in mediation and community peacebuilding.

“We are grateful for the mediation work that Peace Huts, especially WIPNET Peace Huts, continue to undertake. We appeal to all stakeholders to continue supporting these women, whose passion and commitment have strengthened peacebuilding efforts across communities. We also hope to see more female traditional leaders represented and amplifying their voices on platforms like this.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Local Government and the Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (COTLA), Assistant Minister for Culture and Custom, William T. Jallah highlighted ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion within governance and traditional leadership structures.

“Women are increasingly being appointed to positions that were traditionally dominated by men, including commissioners, paramount chiefs, clan chiefs, and general town chiefs. Through continued advocacy and awareness, more women are recognizing their capacity to lead. We remain committed to promoting positive cultural values, strengthening gender equality, and ensuring women are provided equal opportunities and equal pay based on qualifications.”

Participants also reflected on barriers that continue to limit women’s full participation in leadership, including harmful social norms, informal appointment practices, weak institutional support systems, and limited recognition and resourcing of community peacebuilding structures such as Peace Huts. 

The dialogue concluded with a call for stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society, traditional leaders, development partners, and women's organizations to accelerate progress toward inclusive governance and sustainable peace. Participants committed to advancing practical actions that will strengthen women's representation in leadership, support women already serving in leadership positions, and ensure greater recognition of women's contributions to peacebuilding throughout Liberia.