Liberia IGF 2024: Internews-Led Roundtable Ignites National Dialogue on Cybersecurity, Data Protection, and Media Law— A Strategic Step Toward Strengthening Liberia’s Digital Governance Landscape
Monrovia, Liberia — In a landmark effort to advance Liberia’s digital policy environment, the Liberia Internet Governance Forum (Liberia IGF) hosted the Internews Roundtable Policy Session on August 28, 2024, as part of its Internet Governance Week 2024. The policy roundtable, held under the sub-theme “Media Law, Data Protection, and National Cybersecurity Strategy,” brought together key policymakers, regulators, media professionals, civil society actors, and international partners to address critical and timely issues shaping the country’s digital future.
This event marked one of the most consequential conversations during Liberia IGF 2024, which is now in its fifth year since revival in 2020 and remains co-hosted by the Ministry of Posts & Telecommunications and the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). The 2024 edition stands out for its expanded, week-long programming dedicated to strengthening multistakeholder engagement and boosting Liberia’s readiness for emerging digital challenges.
Moderated by Atty. Al-Varney Roger, a Media Layer from the Internews Roundtable served as a platform for open, informed, and inclusive dialogue. Discussions were grounded in current national concerns, including the draft Data Protection and Privacy Bill, the pending National Cybersecurity Strategy, and ongoing debates surrounding media law reform. “This year’s IGF represents our most ambitious effort yet,” said Peterking Quaye, Liberia IGF’s National Convener and Coordinator. “We are focused on meaningful, inclusive discussions—especially those that involve cybersecurity, digital rights, and media accountability. The Internews Roundtable is a cornerstone of this year’s policy engagement.”
The event was made possible through the collaboration with USAID Internews, a global leader in promoting independent media and digital rights. Speaking during the roundtable, Lien Bech, Internews Liberia Country Director, highlighted the organization’s commitment: “Internews is proud to support Liberia IGF 2024. This platform is not only timely, it is crucial. As Liberia accelerates digital adoption, this forum helps ensure that rights-based and secure frameworks are prioritized. Our partnership reflects our long-term dedication to advancing freedom of expression, data protection, and cybersecurity.”
Liberia is in the midst of significant digital transformation. According to GSMA Mobile Connectivity Index, internet adoption in Liberia remains under 30%, with rural communities especially underserved. Meanwhile, a recent Afrobarometer survey (2023) revealed that 55% of Liberians are concerned about online misinformation, while only 20% are aware of their digital rights—highlighting the urgency of forums like Liberia IGF.
The Internews session directly addressed this gap by focusing on the status of the National Cybersecurity Strategy, a framework currently in development to enhance Liberia’s response to digital threats; media law reforms, particularly those related to journalist protection and the regulation of online content; and data protection and digital privacy, with emphasis on the long-awaited legislation that civil society organizations and rights groups continue to advocate for as a means to safeguard citizens’ digital rights.
The Internews roundtable, like other sessions throughout the IGF Week, is expected to feed into a comprehensive national declaration and set of policy recommendations—to be published and presented to Parliament and relevant ministries. Liberia IGF will also prepare a follow-up white paper outlining action steps for implementation and stakeholder accountability. Peterking Quaye reinforced the forum’s growing relevance ,“Since 2020, Liberia IGF has evolved from a consultative platform into a national agenda-setting mechanism. Today, it informs legislation, builds digital resilience, and empowers citizens. This year, we take a step further—with stronger policy outputs and regional visibility.”
The Liberia IGF continues to serve as a model within the MRU (Mano River Union) and broader ECOWAS digital governance community. Its commitment to multistakeholder engagement aligns with the Global Digital Compact and the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030).
The Internews Roundtable Policy Session was not just an event—it was a reaffirmation of Liberia’s commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and rights-based digital future. With coordinated leadership from Liberia IGF, strategic partnerships, and active public engagement, the forum continues to shape Liberia’s digital policy path. Stay engaged with @LiberiaIGFfor updates, publications, and outcomes from IGF Week 2025.
By Liberia IGF Communications Desk
