The Government of Liberia on Tuesday officially launched a report documenting the legacy and contributions of India’s all-women Formed Police Unit that served alongside the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, from 2007 to 2016. The launch, held at the Cape Hotel in Monrovia, was presided over by Liberia’s Minister of National Defense, Brigadier General Geraldine Janet George, (Rtd).
Addressing dignitaries from government, the joint security, the United Nations, civil society, and academia, Minister George described the deployment of the Indian FPU as “significant not only because of its contribution to peace and security, but also because it demonstrated the vital role women can play in maintaining peace, protecting communities and supporting post-conflict recovery.” Liberia, she noted, emerged from a devastating civil conflict with the enormous task of rebuilding institutions and restoring public trust in the security sector.
During that period, the Minister said, the Indian Formed Police Unit provided “an important example of discipline, professionalism, and women’s meaningful participation in peace and security operations.”
“Their contribution also carried a powerful message to Liberian women and girls: women are not merely beneficiaries of peace and security; they are essential actors in creating, sustaining, and protecting peace,” Gen. George stated.
She stressed that as Liberia continues to strengthen its security institutions, the lessons from the peacekeeping experience must be preserved and women’s participation in the sector must remain a priority. The report was researched and published by the Ducor Institute for Social and Economic Research.
Minister George said the document is “particularly valuable because it allows us to document, study, and learn from that experience.” She urged researchers, policymakers and security institutions to use its findings to inform future programs on Women, Peace and Security.
On behalf of the Ministry of National Defense and the Government of Liberia, she commended the Government and people of India, the United Nations, members of the Indian FPU, and Liberian institutions that supported the mission.
“It is my distinct pleasure, as Chief Launcher, to officially launch this report,” she said. “May this report inspire renewed commitment to women’s leadership in peace and security, and strengthen Liberia’s partnership with India and the United Nations.” The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, security leadership, and representatives of women’s organizations.
