Ecumenical Leadership and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Liberia: A Critical Analysis of LCC and IRCL

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https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.531
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Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026): African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research

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Rogers M. Garwoh
St. Paul's University

Abstract

Liberia’s fourteen-year civil conflict (1989-2003) produced devastating political, economic, social, and psychological consequences, eroding the country’s institutional capacity and fragmenting its social fabric. Amid the collapse of governance systems, religious institutions particularly the Liberia Council of Churches and the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia emerged as influential actors capable of mediating disputes, advocating for human rights, shaping political discourse, and facilitating reconciliation. While the role of faith-based institutions in African peacebuilding continues to be recognized in global scholarship, there remains a limited body of academic work that systematically assesses the long-term contribution, challenges, and evolving role of ecumenical leadership in Liberia’s post-conflict transformation. This study critically examines the historical and contemporary engagement of Liberia Council of Churches and Inter-Religious Council of Liberia in post-war Monrovia, highlighting their effectiveness, constraints, and prospects for sustainable peacebuilding.


Drawing from Conflict Transformation Theory, Social Capital Theory, and the Theology of Reconciliation, thirty-five purposively selected participants including ecumenical leaders, clergy, government officials, civil society actors and community beneficiaries, were interviewed and participated in focus group discussions. Findings indicate that while Liberia Council of Churches and Inter-Religious Council of Liberia made significant contributions to mediation, civic education, trauma healing, and social cohesion, their influence is increasingly challenged by political co-optation, denominational fragmentation, resource limitations, and declining public trust, particularly among youth. Nevertheless, ecumenical leadership remains a vital pillar in Liberia’s fragile peace architecture. Strengthening theological depth, enhancing institutional capacity, and deepening inter-denominational collaboration are necessary to maximize their transformative potential.

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How to Cite
Ecumenical Leadership and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Liberia: A Critical Analysis of LCC and IRCL. (2026). African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research, 11(1), 189-213. https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.531

How to Cite

Ecumenical Leadership and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding in Liberia: A Critical Analysis of LCC and IRCL. (2026). African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research, 11(1), 189-213. https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.531

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