From Learning to Leadership: How Liberia’s Democracy School is Changing Politics 

“Democracy will be declared unfit if it fails to meet the needs and aspirations of the ordinary people.” Abraham J. Garpehn, NIMD Democracy School Participant

Over the years, we have seen democracy hollowed out in its implementation across the world. In several West African countries, democratic systems and institutions are slowly broken down, whittling away at people’s trust in their country’s democracy. 

In Liberia, despite making significant steps towards a well-functioning and vibrant multi-party democracy, the country still grapples with challenges such as corruption, weak institutions, and limited access to essential services for its citizens. 

NIMD aims to build a network of people willing to work across divides to shape and strengthen their democracy—people who are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to create change and foster inclusiveness and responsiveness in all their work. 

Despite the active participation of women and youth at the local government level in Liberia, there remains a considerable gender gap in the legislature. Liberia’s House of Representatives holds just eight women, making up only 11% of the total representatives. Even fewer young parliamentarians are found in the bicameral legislature, despite the fact that three-quarters (74.6%) of the population is under 34 years of age, according to the 2022 national census. 

To ensure that Liberian youth can have a meaningful say in their own futures, NIMD Liberia launched the country’s first-ever Democracy School—a significant step toward fostering inclusive political representation and participation. 

The initiative, funded by the European Union, the Embassies of Ireland and Sweden, and implemented in collaboration with Naymote—Partners for Democratic Development, aims to strengthen the capacity of young leaders for meaningful involvement in the country’s political landscape. 

A Transformative Experience 

“It has been a unique journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning. This opportunity allowed young people to uncover their importance in society, improve their mindset, enhance their communication skills, and learn about the reality of democracy in our country.” Romell Hiama, NIMD Democracy School Participant

The Democracy School, which ran from 17-21 February, 2025, in Gbarnga, Bong County, aimed to equip thirty emerging young leaders from various political parties and student organizations across Liberia with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective political engagement. 

By engaging young leaders, the Democracy School seeks to create a new generation of informed and proactive political actors dedicated to democratic progress and national development—allowing them to make their own decisions about how they want to see their democracy evolve. 

“We are the architects of tomorrow’s democracy.” Catherine William, President of the Liberia Democracy School

A Comprehensive Learning Experience 

The Democracy School offers an extensive curriculum covering essential topics such as: 

• Political theory and constitutional democracy 

• Separation of powers and social contract theory 

• Citizenship and political participation 

• The historical formation of Liberia as a nation-state 

• The evolution of political parties and political coalitions 

• Leadership and governance that respond to the needs of young people 

• Accountability, democratic institutions, and budgetary processes 

With expert-led discussions, interactive workshops, and practical exercises, participants gained valuable insights into democratic principles and governance, enhancing their ability to contribute to the nation’s political discourse effectively. 

Looking Ahead 

The Democracy School represents a major step forward in empowering Liberia’s youth to take an active role in shaping the country’s political future. As the initiative continues, it holds the promise of cultivating a generation of young leaders committed to democratic values, accountability, and inclusive governance. 

With the success of its first cohort, there is hope that the Democracy School will become a cornerstone of political education in Liberia, inspiring more young people to participate meaningfully in the nation’s democratic processes. 

Find out more about NIMD Liberia’s work here.