Liberia flagPolitics & Government Guide

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Liberia

Liberia is a unitary constitutional republic modeled on the United States government system, with Joseph Boakai serving as president since January 2024 following a competitive 2023 election. The country has maintained peace and stability for over two decades since its civil war ended in 2003, though corruption and governance challenges remain significant concerns. The government is implementing open government reforms aligned with its 2025-2029 ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

Political Stability

Poor

Corruption Index

Below Average

Press Freedom

Moderate

Government Type

Unitary constitutional republic and representative democracy

Legal System

Mixed legal system based on common law with customary law elements

Head of State

President Joseph Boakai(since 2024)

Head of Government

President Joseph Boakai(Unity Party)since 2024

Political Indicators

Political Stability
-0.85

Scale: -2.5 to 2.5

Fragile

World Bank Political Stability Index (2024)

Corruption Index
33Rank #137

Scale: 0-100

Transparency International (2024)

Press Freedom
54.8Rank #95

Scale: 0-100

Reporters Without Borders (2024)

Legislature

Type:bicameral
Upper House:Senate (30 seats)
Lower House:House of Representatives (73 seats)

Voting Rights

All citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote in presidential and legislative elections. Presidential and vice presidential candidates are elected to six-year terms by majority vote in a two-round system. House members serve six-year terms elected by plurality vote within electoral districts. Senate members serve nine-year terms elected at-large by plurality vote.

Recent Developments

  • Joseph Boakai defeated incumbent George Weah in the 2023 presidential election and was sworn in on January 22, 2024
  • Government launched 2025-2029 ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development focusing on open government reforms
  • Ongoing efforts to combat corruption and improve government transparency through open government partnerships
  • Continued challenges with corruption, impunity, and violence against women despite two decades of post-civil war stability
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal adult suffrage
Constitution1986
Counties15