H. CON. RES. 233 - ADDRESSING CIVIL WAR IN LIBERIA

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Liberia and efforts to introduce peace and justice to that country.

Rep Fossella, Vito [NY-13] (introduced 6/26/2003)
Co-Sponsors

This bill asks for international support for peacekeeping operations in Liberia to end the civil war, achieve peace, and restore stability, acknowledging the long history between Liberia and the United States dating back to 1847, when Liberia was founded by freed slaves returning from the United States. This includes:

• innovative ways to support such a peacekeeping operation and disarmament program and ensure their success

• international support for a transition leading to free and fair elections and the restoration of legitimate governing capacity to a new and truly democratic Liberian government

• international support for the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to assist Liberians in building a more secure and free Liberia

• the departure of Charles Taylor from Liberia and his trial at the Special Court for Sierra Leone for Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes

The bill also includes brief descriptions of the atrocities wrought upon Liberia by Charles Taylor and the civil war, including the creation of hundreds of thousands of refugees and displaced persons, use of child soldiers and destruction of natural resources.

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