The Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) has commemorated this year’s World Refugee Day in Monrovia.
LRRRC commemorated the event in collaboration with the Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Support Initiative.
The annual event, celebrated on June 20, honored individuals who have left their countries in search of safety and sanctuary.
This year’s theme: “Solidarity with Refugees and Stop Irregular Migration,” emphasizes the urgent need for collective action and awareness.
LRRRC Executive Director, Jeror Cole Bangalu, highlighted the resilience and contributions of millions forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, violence and human rights abuses.
Bangalu: “Today, we gather to honor refugees everywhere and reaffirm our commitment to protect those who have been forcibly displaced.”
He noted that World Refugee Day is not merely a day of reflection, but a call to action. He reminded the guests that behind every statistic lies a human story; families seeking safety, children longing for education, and individuals striving to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Bangalu spoke of the tradition of hospitality; recalled how many Liberians sought shelter in neighboring countries during the civil conflicts.
He meanwhile, pledged to continue providing support to those in need.
This year’s focus on stopping irregular migration and human trafficking, underscores the grave dangers many face in their pursuit of safety.
“Across our region and beyond, individuals embark on perilous migration journeys, often falling prey to exploitation, abuse, or even death.”
Bangal called for intensified public awareness and the development of legal migration pathways to combat trafficking in all forms.
The LRRRC, he said, is actively collaborating with the government, United Nations development partners, civil society organizations, and local communities to enhance protection, improve migration governance and promote sustainable solutions for displaced populations.
“Refugees are not merely beneficiaries of assistance; they are agents of development and partners in nation-building.”
Justice Minister, N. Oswald Tweh, echoed Bangalu recorded sentiments, adding that the issue of refugees is not foreign, given the Liberia’s history of displacement.
Tweh also highlighted ongoing efforts to prosecute human trafficking cases in Grand Gedeh, Cape Mount, and Montserrado counties.
United Nations Resident Coordinator, Madam Christine N. Umotoni, encouraged refugees to advocate for themselves to overcome challenges, because what the refugees are going through are just temporary.
Umotoni, underscored the importance of finding solutions that allow refugees to live with dignity and unity.