Monrovia- October 23, 2025: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has taken a significant step towards protecting the rights and well-being of Liberian women and children by submitting a groundbreaking Bill to the House of Representatives. The proposed legislation, titled “An Act to Ban Harmful Cultural Practices in Liberia,” seeks to outlaw female circumcision, child marriage, and other traditional practices that are detrimental to the health and rights of women and children.

According to President Boakai, the Bill stems from Liberia’s moral and legal obligation to protect its citizens’ dignity and well-being. He emphasized that the proposed legislation is also in line with the country’s commitments under key international treaties, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Maputo Protocol.

“The Bill underscores our determination to ensure that no tradition, however longstanding, should compromise the health, safety, and rights of Liberian citizens,” President Boakai wrote, urging the Legislature’s “prompt and favorable consideration.”

The Bill has several major provisions. It prohibits female circumcision, child marriage, and similar harmful traditional practices. It also establishes penalties for violators and mandates protection and support services for victims. Furthermore, the Bill introduces a six-month transition period before enforcement, focusing on public education, community dialogue, and engagement with traditional and civil society leaders to promote understanding and compliance.

This proposed legislation aligns with the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, particularly under its pillars of Rule of Law, Education, and Social Protection. The House of Representatives has referred the Bill to the Committees on Gender, Health, Internal Affairs, and Judiciary for review and report within three weeks.

If passed, this Bill would mark a significant step towards protecting the rights and well-being of Liberian women and children and demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding its international obligations and promoting inclusive development.