Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

thumb|To girls and women everywhere, I issue a simple invitation. My sisters, my daughters, my friends; find your voice. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (born Ellen Eugenia Johnson, 29 October 1938) is a Liberian politician who served as the 24th president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018. Sirleaf was the first elected female head of state in Africa. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, in recognition of her efforts to bring women into the peacekeeping process. Quotes Ethnicity should enrich us; it should make us a unique people in our diversity and not be used to divide us. 15 Quotes by Nobel Laureate Ellen Johnson Sirleaf that show the importance of enabling women. January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. To girls and women everywhere, I issue a simple invitation. My sisters, my daughters, my friends; find your voice. January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. It’s a big challenge in whatever country we’re in, because the stereotyping, the obstacles that women face are global… And so the action must be global, it must be collective. And it must be a networking across borders, because our rights are the same, our goals are common. Leadership is never given on a silver platter, one has to earn it. 15 Quotes by Nobel Laureate Ellen Johnson Sirleaf that show the importance of enabling women January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. Even though women are the victims, they are the ones who stand up. They are the ones who are able to promote peace and reconciliation Johnson Sirleaf on women standing up for peace Once the glass ceiling has been broken, it can never be put back together, however one would try to do that. January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. I believe that there are certain attributes in a woman that give her some advantages over a man. Women are usually more honest, more sensitive to issues and bring a stronger sense of commitment and dedication to what they do. Maybe because they were mothers, and being a mother, you have that special attention for the family, for the young, for children. January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. January 10 2021 by YourStory.Com retrieved 14 November 2022. “If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” “Why are some countries able, despite their very real and serious problems, to press ahead along the road to reconciliation, recovery, and redevelopment while others cannot? These are critical questions for Africa, and their answers are complex and not always clear. Leadership is crucial, of course. Kagame was a strong leader–decisive, focused, disciplined, and honest–and he remains so today. I believe that sometimes people's characters are molded by their environment. Angola, like Liberia, like Sierra Leone, is resource-rich, a natural blessing that sometimes has the sad effect of diminishing the human drive for self-sufficiency, the ability and determination to maximize that which one has. Kagame had nothing. He grew up in a refugee camp, equipped with only his own strength of will and determination to create a better life for himself and his countrymen. ” Increasingly there is recognition that full gender equity will ensure a stronger economy, a more developed nation, a more peaceful nation. And that is why we must continue to work. https://africa.unwomen.org/en/news-and-events/stories/2021/03/ten-african-women-leaders-we-admire Africa un women ( March 19,2021). " True reconciliation is not just about forgiving, but also about building a future together". "Future generations will judge us not by what we say, but what we do." "Of course, I am the first democratically elected woman president in Africa, and that raises a lot of expectations. Because I represent the aspirations of women all over Africa, I must succeed for them. I must keep the door open for women's participation in politics at the highest level. That is both humbling and exciting." "I earned my professional credibility a long time ago in a male-dominated world. I just hope that as a woman, I bring in an extra dimension to the job. I bring in the sensitivity of being a woman and a mother, and that means I pay more attention to women, children, and the social needs of society." "I don't face any particular problems as a woman president because I have been a professional for a long time. I keep telling people: I am a technocrat who happens to be a woman." "The people of Liberia know what it means to be deprived of clean water. But we also know what it means to see our children begin to smile again, with a restoration of hope and faith in the future." "One has to look at my life story to see what I've done. I've paid a heavy price that many people don't realize." "Our entire judicial system in Liberia has broken down because of the many years of lawlessness, indiscipline and warfare. We need more training to get more qualified judges. We need infrastructural reforms. All of our laws need to be re-examined by a law reform commission." "In Liberia, our main obstacle is infrastructure: the lights, the water, the roads. Companies can't operate without those things. And even though we have commitments from our partners, it takes time to turn commitments into cash." “I did my best under the extenuating circumstances and conditions that we all know so very well,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) I served my country with dedication and with honesty. I therefore make no apology to anybody or anything. My record stands by me, and history will be the judge.” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “This invitation is an unprecedented historical decision,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “But rather than speak in generalities, I want to highlight issues that demand attention if Liberia is to move forward.” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “Liberia today is above where we were at independence,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “The issue of land is causing serious problems in the country,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “No country will allow this to happen, and neither should we,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) “This embarrasses me. It embarrasses women in Liberia. It embarrasses women in Africa and worldwide,” “I Make No Apology”: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Defends 12-Year Presidency Before Liberian Lawmakers liberianinvestigator.com(March 6, 2026) The events of April 12, 1980, remain among the most painful in Liberia’s history. I lived through them. I lost colleagues. I was detained. And like every Liberian who survived that period, I carry the weight of what was lost — not only lives, but a generation of promise for our country.I have dedicated my life to Liberia — as a public servant under both President Tubman and President Tolbert, as an advocate during our darkest years of civil conflict, and as President for twelve years. That record is documented, examined, and known. It does not require a defense.Liberia’s history is complex, and I have always believed it should be told fully and honestly — including the difficult chapters. I initiated and participated in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process, precisely because accountability and transparency are foundational to healing.History is best served by evidence, rigorous inquiry, and a commitment to truth. I trust Liberians — and the broader world — to apply that standard to any account of Liberia’s past, including this period.I remain committed to Liberia’s future, to the advancement of African women in leadership, and to the work of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development. That is where my energy belongs, and where it will remain. Statement from Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on Documentary of the Assassination of President Tolbert ejscenter.org(April 2026) "This city is filthy," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "I drive through it from time to time and I'm ashamed." Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "When they drive through our cities, they leave from here and say so much terrible things about the country," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "This is an opportunity," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "We don't need it," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) Regarding allegations of nepotism and administrative or financial malpractices, LACRA maintains that these claims are entirely baseless..." Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "We should not be sensational," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "Find the evidence and follow the law." Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "I don't think this is the way to go," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "I don't think someone should be expelled because of freedom of speech." Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "I certainly do not think it should be a reason for someone to bear such penalty," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "Freedom of speech is something that we must respect. That's what makes good governance," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "We must see ourselves as one," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "You cannot talk about employment without training people," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "Are we getting the benefit from our resources?" Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "You don't just get involved because you're a former leader," Liberia: Sirleaf Says 'Filthy' Monrovia Reflects Governance Failures Under Boakai Allafrica (30 April 2026) "When I took the Presidential Oath of Office in January 2006, Liberia was a nation where corruption was largely the operating system," Former President Sirleaf Supports WECC and NACC - Calls for Adequate Funding oweccliberia.org (June 30, 2026) "Public office had become, for too many, a license for personal extraction rather than an obligation to serve." Former President Sirleaf Supports WECC and NACC - Calls for Adequate Funding oweccliberia.org (June 30, 2026) "We, therefore, call on the President to treat the request for the Specialized Court with the seriousness it deserves and to take the necessary corrective executive actions on that and the several scandals that plague our society," Former President Sirleaf Supports WECC and NACC - Calls for Adequate Funding oweccliberia.org (June 30, 2026) “If you want more banks to open and if you want investment to come, they have to have confidence in our government, ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “We need a government that investors can respect, rely on, and trust. Otherwise, we become a place for bad businesses and drug dealers instead of legitimate investors.” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “The record is clear,” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “When women borrow from the banks, women pay. That is why financial institutions have confidence in women.” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “We need a government to be disciplined,” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “Those responsible for managing our markets, implementing policies, and protecting our citizens must carry out their responsibilities with discipline and respect for the people.” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “We have to build confidence in every aspect of our national endeavor,” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “People must believe that if they invest, farm, or start a business, they will have the opportunity to succeed.” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “We must tell investors to bring their money, do business, and invest in Liberia,” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) . “But our country must also receive its fair share, and our people must have confidence that the government will always do the right thing.” ‘Build Integrity, Not a Haven for Drug Dealers,’ Sirleaf Tells Governmentwestafricanpilot.net(Jul 30, 2026) “This Summit could not be convened at a more reflective and challenging time for our country. Today, perhaps more than ever before, we confront the daunting challenge of a dismal economic outlook and the increasing prospect of looking only to ourselves to improve the conditions of living in our country. To put it more bluntly, today, more than ever, we are on our own,” Summit for Democracy Sets The Tone undp.org (March 7, 2025) “My fellow Liberians now is not the time for weakening legislative oversights; so that we continue to act in fulfillment of narrow self-interests and what is best for a party over what is necessary for our country,” Summit for Democracy Sets The Tone undp.org (March 7, 2025) “The European Union has also been pivotal in supporting the Liberian government's fight against corruption, providing technical assistance to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), and helping build mechanisms to improve transparency in public finances,” Summit for Democracy Sets The Tone undp.org (March 7, 2025) "When women are given the platform and the opportunity, they can deliver," Summit for Democracy Sets The Tone undp.org (March 7, 2025) “At the APA Annual Meeting, we celebrate the enduring spirit of hope and resilience that defines Africa—qualities especially embodied by the strength of African women,” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Through the transformative power of collaboration, we are committed to advancing mental health care and upholding the rights and dignity of our people.” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “This legislation was designed to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, challenge outdated beliefs—including the attribution of psychiatric conditions to ‘witchcraft’ in some parts of society—and improve access to quality mental health care,” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Ultimately, the act serves to protect the dignity and rights of individuals living with psychiatric illnesses. I championed this legislation because I firmly believe that every individual deserves compassionate, high-quality mental health care, free from discrimination.” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Additionally, the persistent undervaluation of women’s contributions further impedes their advancement into leadership positions,” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Addressing these issues is essential to creating a more inclusive and dynamic leadership landscape. Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Women bring unique perspectives and experiences that are vital in shaping inclusive, effective health care policies,” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “Their insights ensure that services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of entire communities, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and responsive health system.” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “As the first woman to receive the award, it is my hope that women and girls across Africa will be inspired to reach for their true potential, to navigate the challenges, break through barriers, and to pursue their dreams. Where there is a first, there comes a second, and a third, and a fourth.” Africa's Iron rady to deliver emerging voices keynote psychiatryonline.org (28 March 2025) “We live in an interconnected global community where mutual support is essential. While the EU-Liberia VPA may not hold significant weight in every part of the world, it has been crucial to our social and economic security. This is an agreement that must not be cancelled,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former Liberian President Joins SDI and Others in Speaking Against the European Union’s Proposed Cancellation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement sdiliberia.org ( May 9, 2025 ) “In 2006, we secured passage of the National Forestry Reform Law. The reform process was supported by the UN, the World Bank, and the European Union, aiming to improve Liberia’s forest governance, promote sustainable management, enhance transparency in the sector, and secure the future of its vast forest resources. Today, the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) runs systems that track timber harvesting, locating the geographic source and species of every piece of wood exported from Liberia,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former Liberian President Joins SDI and Others in Speaking Against the European Union’s Proposed Cancellation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement sdiliberia.org ( May 9, 2025 ) , “Considering the context of Liberia, with its history of conflict, restoring the forestry sector is a slow process with many ups and downs. Cancelling the VPA would undermine our achievements over the years and seriously put any governance reforms at risk. This is not theoretical. The Grebo-Krahn national forest, on Liberia’s border with Ivory Coast, might not have survived to this day without more sustainable and economically feasible alternatives.” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former Liberian President Joins SDI and Others in Speaking Against the European Union’s Proposed Cancellation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement sdiliberia.org ( May 9, 2025 ) “There is huge concern for the communities that live in and depend on the forest and all other threatened regions if illegal timber becomes the norm once more. It endangers our forests, threatens biodiversity, and undermines the efforts we have made towards sustainable development." Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former Liberian President Joins SDI and Others in Speaking Against the European Union’s Proposed Cancellation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement sdiliberia.org ( May 9, 2025 ) “This agreement, bound by principles of equity and solidarity, recognizes that even in uncertain times, the only way to prevent and mitigate the impact of pandemics is to work together, to protect everyone and leave no one behind,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Helen Clark Applaud Historic Pandemic Agreement theindependentpanel.org (20 May, 2025 ) “Consider this agreement a foundation from which to build, starting today,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Helen Clark Applaud Historic Pandemic Agreement theindependentpanel.org (20 May, 2025 ) Many gaps remain in finance, equitable access to medical countermeasures and in understanding evolving risks. Don’t wait to get started. Dangerous pathogens are looming, and they certainly will not wait.” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Helen Clark Applaud Historic Pandemic Agreement theindependentpanel.org (20 May, 2025 ) “We want nothing more than to see this pandemic agreement open for signature following the World Health Assembly in 2026,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Helen Clark Applaud Historic Pandemic Agreement theindependentpanel.org (20 May, 2025 ) “Pandemic preparedness and response remain vastly underfunded. Countries, regions and the global system must urgently think differently, and think big about how to finance this crucial public good,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Helen Clark Applaud Historic Pandemic Agreement theindependentpanel.org (20 May, 2025 ) “Liberia’s story is one of pain, but also of promise,” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “A nation once brought to its knees by prolonged conflict now stands as evidence of what’s possible when national will is strengthened by global solidarity.” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “We knew we couldn’t return to the Liberia that once was,” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “Instead, we had to build a new nation founded on justice, transparency, inclusion, and hope.” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “International engagement-technical, financial, and moral-helped laid the foundation for the peace we are privileged to experience today,” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “Liberia’s peace is still a work in progress,” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “but we have come a long way.” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “We must equip the Commission to meet today’s challenges-and to deliver fully on its mandate for a more peaceful world,” “A Nation Rising from Pain to Promise,” says Ex-President Johnson-Sirleaf at UN Peacebuilding Forum verityonlinenews.com (June 23, 2025) “We needed enough people at the decision-making level who could make a difference,” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “That way, we could start changing the mindset, changing attitudes.” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) What does it take as a young person? What can we do to improve education, expand knowledge, and ultimately build a society where leadership is more inclusive and impactful?” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “We didn’t say politics,” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “The Center never said politics. It said leadership in public service.” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “These figures show progress, but also the gaps that remain—especially in elected positions where policy and priorities are set,” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “Country Talks is not just about numbers; it’s about the stories and realities behind them,” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “Let us listen deeply, speak honestly, and think boldly about the Liberia we want—one where women’s leadership is not the exception, but the norm.” Sirleaf demands new leadership, urges shift beyond symbolic women’s representation liberianinvestigator.com (August 18, 2025) “The African Women’s House will be a place where women leaders come together to learn, to lead, and to change the future of our continent,” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf makes commitment to build the African Women’s House: A first-of-its-kind pan-African hub for women’s leadership ejscenter.org (September 25, 2025) “We have long known that African women are the backbone of our societies. Now, we are building the House that their leadership deserves.” Ellen Johnson Sirleaf makes commitment to build the African Women’s House: A first-of-its-kind pan-African hub for women’s leadership ejscenter.org (September 25, 2025) ” The Leaders in Teaching Liberia initiative, which emphasizes STEM and other 21st century skills, is designed to help build a generation ready to drive innovation and shape inclusive futures”. MasterCard Foundation Director for Secondary Edu. Describes Edu. as Pathway to Dignity, Opportunity elbcnews.com (October 21, 2025) ” The success of the initiative depends on every Liberian seeing education as the foundation of development and acting to support it”. MasterCard Foundation Director for Secondary Edu. Describes Edu. as Pathway to Dignity, Opportunity elbcnews.com (October 21, 2025) ” Education empowers citizens to be self-reliant, contribute meaningfully to development, and attract private investment”. MasterCard Foundation Director for Secondary Edu. Describes Edu. as Pathway to Dignity, Opportunity elbcnews.com (October 21, 2025) Our goal is simple: to drive political commitment and financing to prevent gender-based violence - because we know it is preventable. Johnson Sirleaf: Let's go All In to end violence against women ontext.news (December 03, 2025) So here is my call to you: go all in. Johnson Sirleaf: Let's go All In to end violence against women ontext.news (December 03, 2025) 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Lecture (December 10, 2011) A Voice for Freedom online at Nobel Prize website thumb| It is you, my sisters, and especially those who have seen the devastation that merciless violence can bring, to whom I dedicate my remarks, and this Prize. History will judge us not by what we say in this moment in time, but by what we do next to lift the lives of our countrymen and women. It will judge us by the legacy we leave behind for generations to come. Mine has been a long journey, a lifetime journey to Oslo. It was shaped by the values of my parents and by my two grandmothers – indigenous Liberians, farmers and market traders – neither of whom could read or write. They taught me that only through service is one’s life truly blessed. My journey was supported by my many teachers and mentors who guided me to a world opened up by the enlightenment of higher education, and which led to my conviction that access to quality education is the social justice issue of our time. My life was safeguarded when thousands mobilized around the world to free me from imprisonment, and my life was spared by individual acts of compassion by some of my captors. My life was forever transformed when I was given the privilege to serve the people of Liberia – taking on the awesome responsibility of rebuilding a nation nearly destroyed by war and plunder. There was no roadmap for post-conflict transformation. But we knew that we could not let our country slip back into the past. We understood that our greatest responsibility was to keep the peace. The Nobel Committee cannot license us three Laureates to speak for women. But it has provided us a platform from which to speak to women, around the globe, whatever their nationality, their color, their religion, or their station in life. It is you, my sisters, and especially those who have seen the devastation that merciless violence can bring, to whom I dedicate my remarks, and this Prize. Although international tribunals have correctly declared that rape, used as a weapon of war, is a crime against humanity, rapes in times of lawlessness continue unabated. The number of our sisters and daughters of all ages brutally defiled over the past two decades staggers the imagination, and the number of lives devastated by such evil defies comprehension. Through the mutilation of our bodies and the destruction of our ambitions, women and girls have disproportionately paid the price of domestic and international armed conflict. We have paid in the currencies of blood, of tears, and of dignity. However, the need to defend the rights of women is not limited to the battlefield, and the threats to those rights do not emanate only from armed violence. Girls’ education, seen far too often as an unnecessary indulgence rather than the key investment it is, is still under-funded and under-staffed. Too often girls are discouraged from pursuing an academic training, no matter how promising they may be. In too many parts of the world, crimes against women are still under-reported, and the laws protecting women are under-enforced. In this 21st century, surely there is no place for human trafficking that victimizes almost a million people, mostly girls and women, each year. Surely there is no place for girls and women to be beaten and abused. Surely there is no place for a continuing belief that leadership qualities belong to only one gender. Technology has turned our world into one interconnected neighborhood. What happens in one place is seen in every corner, and there has been no better time for the spread of peace, democracy and their attending social justice and fairness for all. Today, across the globe, women, and also men, from all walks of life are finding the courage to say, loudly and firmly, in a thousand languages, “No more.” They reject mindless violence, and defend the fundamental values of democracy, of open society, of freedom, and of peace. If I might thus speak to girls and women everywhere, I would issue them this simple invitation: My sisters, my daughters, my friends, find your voices! Each of us has her own voice, and the differences among us are to be celebrated. But our goals are in harmony. They are the pursuit of peace, the pursuit of justice. They are the defense of rights to which all people are entitled. The political struggles that our countries – Liberia, Yemen and others – have gone through will be meaningful only if the new-found freedom opens new opportunities for all. We are well aware that a new order, born of hunger for change, can easily fall back into the lawless ways of the past. We need our voices to be heard. Find your voice! And raise your voice! Let yours be a voice for freedom! Liberia’s continued progress depends on policies and programs that invest in people and strengthen democratic institutions, while remaining grounded in the rule of law. Most importantly, they must stand the test of time. They must not be dependent on any one leader or any one political party. We must build space and respect for opposition voices; they are not the losers in our open society, but an essential component to strengthened accountability in government. It was exactly 63 years ago today that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. That document, the legacy of a generation that had just emerged from the horrors of a devastating World War, remains of great significance to us today. It is a Declaration that is universal. It speaks of rights that all humans have simply by virtue of being human. These rights are not given to us by governments, which might revoke them at their pleasure. It is a Declaration that is legal, not a list of benevolent aspirations. It obligates States, even in their treatment of their own citizens, to observe, and to uphold, those universal rights and freedoms that belong to us all. External links Wikipedia article Category:Presidents of Liberia Category:Women politicians in Liberia Category:1938 births Category:Living people Category:Government ministers Category:Methodists Category:Nobel Peace Prize laureates Category:Women Nobel laureates Category:Harvard University alumni Category:The Elders Category:Women heads of state