ActionAid International Secretary General, Arthur Larok, has challenged Liberian youth to reject the long-standing narrative that they are merely the “leaders of tomorrow,” and instead demand meaningful participation in leadership and decision-making processes today.
Mr. Larok made the statement during a dialogue with youth movements at ActionAid Liberia’s headquarters in Monrovia. He urged young people to recognize their power, organize collectively, and claim their rightful place at decision-making tables.
“I want you to get rid of this notion and lie that you are future leaders. For decades, those who tell you that you are the future, have continued to occupy leadership positions while young people remain excluded. They have lived their future while you are still waiting.”
The meeting brought together representatives from the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY), Liberia National Students Union (LINSU), Activista Liberia, Young Urban Women’s Movement, Cycles Liberia, Youth Bridge, and the Youth Humanitarian Movement. Participants shared their achievements, challenges, and aspirations while they discussed ways ActionAid International can strengthen support for youth-led advocacy and development initiatives.
Larok also highlighted the gap between Liberia’s youthful population and its representation in governance.
He questioned why young people continue to be underrepresented in key decision-making institutions.
“Young people account for more than 70 percent of the population, yet they represent only a small fraction of parliament and cabinet positions. You are the largest voting bloc. Politicians come to you when they need votes, but where are you when decisions are being made?”
He emphasized the need for Liberian youth to possess the innovation, intelligence, creativity, and energy necessary to drive national development and should not wait for invitations to participate in leadership.
“You make leaders. You shape elections. You influence communities. You should be at the table, not waiting to be invited to the table.”
Participants welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with Larok, share concerns about unemployment, limited economic opportunities, shrinking civic space, and barriers to youth participation in governance.
The dialogue also explored opportunities for strengthening youth movements, advancing gender equality, promoting civic engagement, and building collective action to address the challenges facing young people.
The engagement forms part of Larok’s official visit from June 15–19, 2026.
During the visit, he met with government institutions, civil society organizations, youth and women’s movements, United Nations agencies, development partners, and ActionAid Liberia staff; assessed the organization’s impact, strengthened partnerships, and explored opportunities to advance human rights, gender justice, climate resilience, and locally led development.
As ActionAid continues to champion youth leadership and social justice, the meeting reaffirmed a powerful message: Liberia’s young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders today, and their voices, ideas, and leadership are essential to shape the future.
