MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) has released the Human Rights Situation Report for 2023, covering January to December.

The report highlighted security brutality, mysterious and ritually motivated deaths, and rape, among others.

Other key components of the report include corruption in the Criminal Justice System, prolonged pretrial detention, violence against minority groups, as well as violence against women and children.

Releasing findings and recommendations of the report in Monrovia on Thursday, May 2, 2024, INCHR Chairman, Dempster Brown, expressed serious concerns that human rights violations remain unabated.

Cllr. Brown is also recommending logistical, infrastructural, and manpower development of the Country’s justice system to enhance their capacity to speedily respond to cases.

The INCHR Chairman also stressed the need for the Government of Liberia to ensure that respect for the rule of law and human rights are made paramount in Liberia.

Meanwhile, the Political Officer at the United States Embassy, Juan Martinez, described the INCHR Situation Report as timely as it buttresses the findings in the US State Department’s recently released human rights report on Liberia.

Mr. Martinez stressed that the report is not meant to solely criticize but to bolster and support.

He, however, lauded the Liberian Government for the recent efforts to establish a war and economic crimes court for the Country.

The US Embassy Political Officer also commended Liberia for its fight against human trafficking through what he termed as the most stringent anti-human trafficking law in the world.

Mr. Juan Martinez, at the same time, called on the Government of Liberia to increase support to integrity institutions, including the INCHR, and avoid dependence on international partners.

By: Jarp Davies/Dorbor Harris