Humanism is Needed for Liberia’s Women

by Sarafina Jernora

Humanism, the belief in the intrinsic value and dignity of all human beings, remains a crucial philosophy for building a more just, inclusive, and compassionate society. In Liberia, a country that has endured civil wars, political instability, and social inequality, humanism is especially needed. From the perspective of a woman, humanism is essential not only for gender equality but also for the
overall development of the nation. Liberia, with its complex history and socio-political challenges, requires a humanistic approach to foster peace, justice, and empowerment for all citizens, particularly women.

One of the primary reasons humanism is needed in Liberia is to address the persistent gender inequality that women face. Despite advances in women's rights globally, Liberian women still encounter significant barriers in virtually all sectors, including education, healthcare, and employment. Traditional gender roles often limit women's opportunities, pushing them into domestic labor while excluding them from decision-making spaces. This marginalization is exacerbated by the patriarchal norms that prevail in many parts of Liberian society, where women are often seen as subordinate to men. Humanism emphasizes the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of gender, and calls for the dismantling of societal structures that perpetuate inequality. A humanistic approach would advocate for the equal treatment of women in all spheres of life, from the home to the workplace to the political arena. Women’s rights in Liberia must not be seen as a privilege but as an essential part of human dignity. By recognizing women as equals, Liberia can unlock the full potential of half its population, which is crucial for the country’s progress.

Another compelling reason why humanism is needed in Liberia is to foster the economic empowerment of women. Liberia’s economy, though growing, is still largely dependent on the extractive industries and agriculture, where women play a pivotal but often unrecognized role.
However, women are underrepresented in higher-paying jobs and entrepreneurial ventures. The challenge is compounded by a lack of access to education, financial services, and professional networks that are essential for economic advancement. A humanistic framework would call for policies and initiatives that create equal opportunities for women to access education, healthcare, and employment. By providing women with the necessary tools, whether through financial literacy programs, access to loans, or vocational training, Liberia can unleash an untapped resource that will
contribute to economic growth. Humanism teaches that every individual, regardless of gender, should have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. For Liberia, this means ensuring that women are given the same resources, opportunities, and support as men to contribute to the nation’s economy.

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue in Liberia, with women and girls being disproportionately affected. Reports of sexual violence, domestic abuse, and exploitation are common, yet justice for victims is often delayed or denied. The Liberian legal system, though
improved in some areas, still faces challenges in addressing GBV effectively. Social stigma, lack of resources, and insufficient law enforcement contribute to a culture of silence that allows violence to
persist. Humanism advocates for the protection of all individuals from harm and seeks to establish a society where dignity, respect, and empathy are the cornerstones of human interaction. From the
perspective of a woman, humanism calls for the end of all forms of violence against women and girls, offering them the right to live free from fear. This includes strengthening legal frameworks, improving the response of law enforcement, and promoting cultural change that encourages respect for women’s autonomy and safety. Additionally, humanism emphasizes the need for solidarity and support for survivors of gender-based violence. It is not enough to just end violence; the victims must be provided with the tools to rebuild their lives. This means investing in mental health services, community-based support systems, and economic empowerment programs for survivors. Humanism
requires that society does not only stop the violence but also helps those who have been harmed recover and thrive.

Education is a powerful tool for social mobility and empowerment. However, in Liberia, many girls are still denied an education due to early marriage, poverty, or cultural expectations that prioritize boys over girls. According to the United Nations, the country has one of the lowest rates of girls’ education in the world, which further limits opportunities for women and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Humanism places great value on education as a fundamental human right. It stresses the importance of ensuring that all children, regardless of gender, have access to quality education. For women in Liberia, this is not just about academic success it is about liberation from systemic oppression. When women are educated, they are better equipped to participate in the workforce, make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing, and challenge societal norms that limit their freedoms. Educating girls and women in Liberia is an investment in the future, as it strengthens the entire nation.

Humanism also emphasizes the importance of representation and leadership. In Liberia, women have historically been underrepresented in politics and leadership roles. Although Liberia elected Africa’s first female president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, in 2005, women still make up a small percentage of the legislative body, judiciary, and other key leadership positions. The lack of women in decision-making spaces means that policies often do not reflect the needs and perspectives of half of the population. Humanism advocates for the inclusion of all voices in governance. It is essential that Liberia works toward increasing women’s participation in politics and leadership, ensuring that women have an equal seat at the table. This is not only a matter of justice but also one of good governance. Women bring unique perspectives and solutions to the table, and their inclusion in leadership roles will help build a more balanced and fair society.

From the perspective of a woman in Liberia, humanism is a practical and essential tool for societal transformation. Gender equality, economic empowerment, the end of gender-based violence, education, and political representation are not just issues to be addressed; they are moral imperatives that stem from a belief in the dignity and worth of every human being. By embracing humanism, Liberia can build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society where all citizens, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to thrive. This vision is not only achievable but necessary for the future of the country. Humanism is the key to unlocking the potential of Liberia’s women, and in doing
so, the potential of the nation as a whole.