The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has undergone significant transformations since its inception, evolving from a frontier force to a modern, professional military organization. As Liberia celebrates its 68th Armed Forces Day, it is crucial to examine the AFL's journey and remarkable progress over the years.
The AFL traces its roots back to 1908, when it was established as the Liberian Frontier Force[1][8]. 1956, it was officially renamed the Armed Forces of Liberia[8]. Throughout its history, the AFL received substantial material and training assistance from the United States, which played a crucial role in shaping its development[8].
The AFL's role and reputation were significantly impacted during Liberia's civil wars from 1989 to 2003[9]. Following the Second Civil War, the AFL underwent a complete demobilization and restructuring [2]. This marked a turning point in the force's history, as it aimed to rebuild itself as a professional and disciplined military organization.
In 2006, the U.S. State Department initiated the Security Sector Reform Program to assist in rebuilding the AFL[3]. This program was designed to create a new military after the former forces' demobilization and the combatants' disarmament. The process involved training new personnel, establishing a new military justice system, and emphasizing human rights and professionalization[3].
A significant milestone in the AFL's reformation was the passing of the New National Defense Act in 2008, which implemented a new military justice system[4]. This system was crucial in establishing the rule of law within the military and preventing the recurrence of past abuses. The Military Legal Center (MLC) creation further solidified the AFL's commitment to adhering to legal standards and human rights principles.
One of the AFL's most notable achievements has been its transition from a recipient of UN peacekeeping to a contributor. Since 2013, the AFL has participated in various peacekeeping missions, including the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA)[5]. This involvement has boosted Liberia's international standing and demonstrated the AFL's growth as a professional force.
The AFL's performance in MINUSMA has been particularly noteworthy. Over eight rotations, approximately 800 AFL personnel were deployed to Mali, representing a significant portion of Liberia's military strength of about 2,000[5]. This commitment to international peacekeeping efforts has earned the AFL recognition and respect from the global community.
Since 2009 [6], the Michigan National Guard has played a crucial role in the AFL's development through the State Partnership Program. This partnership has contributed significantly to training and capacity-building efforts. Additionally, the support of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been instrumental in the AFL's rebuilding process.
The AFL has made significant strides in professionalizing its forces and embedding human rights principles into its operations. The unofficial motto, "Building a Force For Good," encapsulates the AFL's new direction and ethos. This focus on ethical conduct and professionalism has been a cornerstone of the AFL's transformation.
Beyond its military duties, the AFL has also contributed to Liberia's healthcare system. Establishing the 14 Military Hospital, one of the nation's most advanced medical facilities showcases the AFL's role in providing hope and healing to the Liberian people[7].
In a significant step towards self-sufficiency, the AFL recently launched its own NCO Academy. This nine-week pilot curriculum, led by Liberian NCO instructors, is roughly equivalent to the U.S. Army's Basic Leader Course. This development underscores the AFL's commitment to developing its leadership and reducing dependence on external training.
As the AFL continues to evolve, it faces both opportunities and challenges. While it has made remarkable progress in less than two decades, issues such as funding and resource constraints remain. However, with continued support from international partners and a strong commitment to professionalism and human rights, the AFL is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory as a credible security partner in West Africa.
References
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[1] https://www.africabib.org/rec.php?RID=354181084
[2] https://peaceaccords.nd.edu/provision/military-reform-accra-peace-agreement
[3] https://press.armywarcollege.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1647&context=monographs
[4] https://thenewdawnliberia.com/political-neutrality-keeping-the-armed-forces-of-liberia-out-of-politics/
[5] https://www.dvidshub.net/news/460572/us-officials-celebrate-armed-forces-liberia-accomplishments-minusma-conclusion-ceremony
[6] https://www.ang.af.mil/Media/Article-Display/Article/3778697/sierra-leone-to-partner-with-michigan-national-guard-liberia/
[7] The Armed Forces of Liberia: A Journey of Transformation and Progresshttps://www.army.mil/article/266309/setaf_af_civil_affairs_soldiers_team_with_armed_forces_of_liberia
[8] https://dbpedia.org/page/Armed_Forces_of_Liberia
[9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_of_Liberia
[10] https://www.iwmf.org/reporting/liberia-afls-2014-west-point-violence-shows-armed-forces-are-not-reformed-from-war-time/
[11] The Armed Forces of Liberia: A Journey of Transformation and Progresshttps://www.army.mil/article/36542/ward_challenges_u_s_military_mentors_to_be_model_professionals_for_liberian_soldiers
[12] https://mod.gov.lr/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/National-Defense-Act-2008.pdf
[13] https://adf-magazine.com/2024/01/liberian-peacekeepers-return-home-to-honors/
[14] The Armed Forces of Liberia: A Journey of Transformation and Progresshttps://www.army.mil/article/274297/michigan_guard_liberia_partner_on_nco_academy_in_west_africa
[15] https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7170206/14-military-hospital-monrovia-liberia
[16] https://www.africom.mil/Story/8319/armed-forces-of-liberias-military-justice-system-f
[17] https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/23046881.pdf
[18] https://www.beyondintractability.org/casestudy/koziol-liberia
[19] https://www.refworld.org/reference/annualreport/usdos/2007/en/34003
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