Civil rights group wants law Enforcement Officers prosecuted for drug trafficking.

A conglomeration of women’s rights and civil society organizations, under the banner “United Action to Combat Drug Trafficking and Substance Abuse in Liberia,” is calling on the government of Liberia to remove and prosecute all law enforcement officers involved in drug trafficking across the country.

They believe that this will enhance accountability within security agencies, as well as provide public trust, which they claim cannot thrive in the absence of accountability.

In a press release dated July 19, 2025, the group requested the enactment of Comprehensive laws to criminalize drug trafficking while safeguarding vulnerable youth from incarceration due to addiction.

It further indicated that Emphasis must be placed on community-based treatment centers, educational programs, and psychosocial support for young individuals struggling with addiction.

In the release, they call on the government to collaborate with neighboring countries and ECOWAS to disrupt trafficking routes and share intelligence.

Additionally, it says, as the country confront the urgent challenges posed by illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse affecting youth and communities, they will stand united in their commitment to safeguarding the health and future of the nation, adding that The Drug Law of Liberia provides a vital framework for addressing these critical issues and that it is essential to mobilize their resources and actions to address the complex and overlapping issues, delivering a coordinated, integrated, and holistic response.

“It is more pressing than ever that we foster collaboration between government authorities, civil society, and community organizations to develop robust prevention and intervention strategies that prioritize education and rehabilitation and stronger accountability.”

In the same release, they highlighted the devastating effects of illicit drug trafficking in the country, which they believed extend beyond individual lives; and at the same time threaten families, destabilize communities, and undermine the national security of the country.

“We want to highlight the impact on women and girls in multiple ways: as victims of illicit drug use, as parents, and in trafficking and trade. Given the prevailing gender inequality, women and girls also bear the socio-economic burden of illicit drug use, including increased vulnerability to sexual and gender-based violence.”

The release further states that to effectively combat the issue of drugs in Liberia, it will require collective and intentional actions to ensure that communities, especially women and young people, have access to necessary resources, including mental health support, addiction treatment information, and community networks.

“As we’ve seen with the 2014 Ebola Outbreak and more recently, the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, when communities are equipped with knowledge and tools, they can proactively protect their families, lead on culturally appropriate messaging and programs, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.”

Accordingly, it says Liberian women and community-led responses have historically been at the forefront of social transformation, playing a central role in grassroots movements, advocating for change, promoting peacebuilding initiatives, and mobilizing communities to shift gender and social norms.

Moreover, it highlighted that their engagement in the fight is crucial for mobilizing collective action against drug trafficking and substance abuse, ultimately promoting safe environments for our youth.

“As such, women must be engaged as key stakeholders in the development and implementation of programs.”

It indicated that the establishment of effective drug prevention programs tailored to the country’s cultural context is also essential, and involving women as educators will enhance the country’s approach to informing young people about the dangers of substance abuse while fostering resilience and empowerment.

Most of the time, it says. Addressing the intergenerational cycle of substance abuse is necessary as well, but transforming the personal narratives into powerful advocacy tools can empower men, women, and young people to guide the next generation toward healthier choices.

“As we move forward, it is crucial to recognize that the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all segments of our society.” The release said further nothing that “It is important to recognize that tackling illicit drug use will require prevention mechanisms not to marginalize further communities already impacted by low socio-economic status.”

Therefore, they call on all stakeholders, government bodies, civil society, community organizations, and international partners to unite in this urgent effort.

They urge all citizens to cultivate healthier communities where young people are shielded from the grip of drugs and empowered to realize their full potential.

I’m closing the group, as indicated, that “The time to act is now, and we must confront this national crisis head-on to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for Liberia.”

The release was signed by the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia, the National Civil Society Council of Liberia, and the Women’s Peace and Security Council. ECOWAS Area- Liberia, Liberia chapter. We are protected by the Champaign AWLN, Women Human Rights Defenders of Liberia, the Female Journalist Association of Liberia, and the Liberian Feminist Forum.