How can law and order be restored in strife-torn Liberia? The ngo Coalition of Liberia -- consisting of the Environmental Lawyers Association and two other non-governmental organisations -- feels a ban on the extraction and trade of gold, diamonds and timber in the country is the best bet. The group holds these commercial activities responsible for the fighting that has killed hundreds of civilians.
It contends that the money so generated is used to finance warring groups. The coalition made an appeal in this regard to the participants of the peace talks on Liberia, in Dakar, Senegal. The activists are pressing for an immediate moratorium on the extraction of gold, diamonds and timber till the installation of a duly elected national government. The un has already imposed a ban on Liberian timber.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.