In a significant interaction with female journalists in Grand Bassa County, United States Ambassador to Liberia, Mark Toner, addressed the pivotal role of the media in promoting peace, good governance, and accountability in Liberia.
His remarks, made during a candid interview, underscored the media’s critical position as a guardian of democracy and a force for change, particularly in a country grappling with deep-seated issues such as corruption, lack of accountability, and the pressing need for a War and Economic Crimes Court.
Ambassador Toner began by addressing the essential partnership between the media and government in building a more transparent and just society. He noted that the Liberian media have the potential to shape national conversations on key issues, especially those concerning governance.
“The media will help the government and the Liberian people tackle some of the challenges the country faces, including the establishment of the war and economic crimes courts, corruption,” Toner stated.
His words served as a reminder that a vibrant, fearless press is indispensable in the fight against corruption, a long-standing problem that has eroded trust in government and stunted Liberia’s development.
Media’s Role in Combating Corruption
During the interview, Toner stressed that the media must be “loud in placing emphasis on people who are practicing corruption.” He explained that by exposing corrupt practices, journalists help prevent the siphoning off of resources meant for development, thereby promoting accountability and integrity in public office.
The ambassador warned that corruption does not only hurt the immediate victims — it has far-reaching consequences for the nation. “Corruption creates distrust among the citizens for government and it also scares away investors,” he noted, drawing a direct line between corrupt governance and Liberia’s struggling economy.
For Liberia, corruption has long been a barrier to progress. While the country has made strides in rebuilding from the civil wars that devastated its infrastructure and institutions, systemic corruption has kept it from fully realizing its potential. Toner’s remarks highlighted that the media, by persistently shedding light on corruption, can help rebuild trust between the government and its citizens, and encourage foreign investment. But to achieve this, the media must act as more than just observers — they must be proactive watchdogs, holding both public and private sectors accountable for their actions.
Elevating Women in Journalism
Shifting his focus to the role of women journalists, Ambassador Toner encouraged them to remain focused and resilient in their pursuit of truth and justice. He acknowledged the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry but reminded them of their essential role in the media landscape. “Women journalists must raise their voices on issues that pertain to society,” he urged, affirming that women’s perspectives are crucial to balanced reporting and inclusive media narratives.
Toner’s call to action was not merely symbolic — it was a recognition of the transformative power of women in media, particularly in post-conflict settings like Liberia. Women journalists, often underrepresented in leadership roles, play a unique role in highlighting issues that affect marginalized communities, such as gender-based violence, women’s rights, and economic inequality. By amplifying their voices, these journalists contribute to a more holistic national discourse and ensure that the stories of all Liberians are told.
The War and Economic Crimes Court: A Pressing Need
Perhaps the most critical part of Ambassador Toner’s message was his subtle yet clear connection between the media’s role and the push for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia. Many Liberians, especially victims of the civil wars, have long called for justice and accountability for the atrocities committed during the conflict. However, the progress toward establishing a court has been slow, with political inertia and vested interests creating obstacles.
Toner’s remarks, though not directly addressing the court, implied that the media must play a central role in advocating for it. “The media must play a key role in achieving these goals,” he said, referring to the broader goals of justice and accountability. Journalists have the power to keep the issue alive in the public consciousness, ensuring that it does not fade into obscurity. By reporting on the stories of victims, the legal and political hurdles, and the international support for the court, the media can maintain pressure on Liberia’s government to move forward with its establishment.
The War and Economic Crimes Court is vital not just for achieving justice for past crimes but also for creating a precedent of accountability in the country. Without it, Liberia risks remaining mired in a culture of impunity, where powerful individuals evade responsibility for both war crimes and economic crimes, including corruption. The media, by reporting objectively and relentlessly on the court’s importance, can help build the political will necessary to make it a reality.
A Vision for the Future
Ambassador Toner’s interview with female journalists in Grand Bassa County was a clarion call for a more engaged and empowered media in Liberia. His message was clear: the media is not just a mirror reflecting society; it is an engine for change. By exposing corruption, amplifying marginalized voices, and advocating for justice, Liberia’s press can help shape the country’s future.
Toner’s words were particularly timely as Liberia stands at a crossroads. The country has made significant strides since the end of its civil wars, but challenges remain. Corruption, impunity, and economic instability continue to hinder progress. However, with a strong, independent media leading the charge, there is hope that Liberia can overcome these obstacles and build a future based on transparency, accountability, and justice.
For the female journalists of Grand Bassa County, and indeed for all journalists in Liberia, Toner’s interview served as both an encouragement and a challenge. In a landscape fraught with difficulties, the media remains one of the most powerful tools for achieving the democratic ideals that Liberians fought so hard for. The media can, and must, be the voice that speaks truth to power, ensuring that the path toward peace, good governance, and justice is not just envisioned but realized.
