By Stephen N. Sonpon
Monrovia, June 10 (LINA) – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has officially launched Liberia’s 10-Year National Security Strategy (2026–2036), describing it as a transformative shift toward a more inclusive, anticipatory, and citizen-focused approach to national security.
Speaking at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia, President Boakai said the new framework redefines security beyond traditional military and enforcement structures, emphasizing that “true security is measured by how well we fulfill our democratic promise.”
He noted that national stability must be rooted in protecting people, strengthening dignity, and expanding opportunities for prosperity.
The strategy introduces a major policy transition from fragmented, sector-based responses to an integrated “whole-of-society” security architecture.
According to the Liberian Chief Executive, the approach is designed to strengthen coordination between security institutions, civil society, and key public service sectors such as health, education, justice, and local governance.
President Boakai described the initiative as a foundational pillar for national development, stressing that modern security challenges require proactive and coordinated responses.
He highlighted that threats such as transnational organized crime, cyber risks, economic vulnerabilities, sabotage, and emerging public health concerns demand a forward-looking national framework.
“The National Security Strategy is a shared roadmap for safeguarding Liberia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, national stability, and democratic values,” the President stated.
He further emphasized that national security is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces or law enforcement agencies, but a collective duty involving all citizens and institutions.
The strategy, he said, places strong focus on prevention, participation, and collaboration across all levels of society.
As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia and Chair of the National Security Council, President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the professionalism, accountability, and operational capacity of security institutions.
He also pledged continued investment in intelligence coordination, border security management, and community-based policing aimed at improving trust between citizens and security agencies.
The Liberian leader called on all stakeholders—including government institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners—to actively participate in the implementation of the strategy.
He stressed that national security is a shared responsibility requiring sustained engagement at every level of society.
President Boakai also underscored the importance of regional and international cooperation, noting that Liberia will deepen collaboration with ECOWAS, the African Union, the United Nations, and other partners to address cross-border and global security threats.
He concluded by commending all contributors to the development of the strategy, including security agencies, government institutions, civil society actors, and international partners.
He urged continuous adaptation of the framework to evolving global and national circumstances, reaffirming the government’s commitment to periodic review and improvement.
The launch of the National Security Strategy (2026–2036) marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s governance and security reform agenda, setting the tone for a decade-long effort to build a safer, more resilient, and democratically grounded nation.