Monrovia – On 8 August, UNMIL handed over a donation of equipment and publications to Liberia’s Ministry of Justice for the establishment of a Human Rights Resource Centre.

The donation to the Human Rights Resource Centre is from UNMIL assessed funding under the treaty reporting obligations project with UNWOMEN as implementing partner. UNMIL supports the Government of Liberia in implementing its National Strategy for meeting Regional and International Human Rights Treaty Obligations. The materials will provide guidance and showcase good practices for learning focussing on the respect for, the promotion and protection of human rights in Liberia.

"As UNMIL prepares to exit Liberia, we believe that the Ministry of Justice will make good use of this equipment and materials to promote human rights, and more importantly to guide the treaty body reporting agenda in Liberia", said Marcel Akpovo, UNMIL Chief of Human Rights and Protection, while handing over the donation to Deputy Justice Minister for Administration and Public Safety, Wheatonia Dixon-Barnes.

Mr. Akpovo reiterated continuing presence of the United Nations in Liberia after the departure of UNMIL early next year. He said the plans are at an advanced stage to establish the Office of the Higher Commissioner of Human Rights in Liberia to bolster promotion of human rights in the country.   

The donation consisted of a projector, video camera, printer, television set, generator, air conditioner, office furniture and assorted human rights publications. The UN Women Liberia Country Representative, Marie Goreth Nizigama also attended the event.