The Commissioners and Electoral Experts of the National Elections Commission (NEC) participated in a three-day workshop held on 17–19 September focusing on boundary delimitation to deepen understanding of the international best practices, legal frameworks, and data-driven approaches for review of electoral districts in Liberia. The workshop was supported by the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) and its development partners the European Union, Irish Aid, and the Embassy of Sweden. 

The workshop sought to enhance national stakeholders’ knowledge of the principles, methodologies, and challenges associated with electoral boundary delimitation, while fostering inclusive dialogue and collaboration towards a transparent, credible, and participatory process that strengthens democratic representation and electoral integrity.

The discussions examined the core elements, attributes, drivers, and potential inhibitors of boundary delimitation in Liberia, laying the groundwork for an informed national debate on the way forward.

Speaking at the opening, the European Union Team Leader for Governance, Dr. Anna Brzozowska, praised the NEC commissioners and secretariat for their commitment to strengthen the country’s electoral processes.

“It is a privilege for me to work in Liberia, with Liberians, and to see how dedicated the country is to democratic processes and how boldly it stands for shared values,” she said.

Dr. Brzozowska highlighted that Liberia’s peaceful transition of power following the 2023 general elections had further elevated the country’s democratic credentials.

Boundary delimitation is fundamental to electoral integrity, enabling fair and effective representation in a democracy. To this end, a series of workshops engaging representatives from NEC, political parties, civil society organizations, relevant government institutions, and legislators will be held in consideration of the topic. Sessions will provide technical guidance and create a platform for inclusive inter-institutional and multi-stakeholder dialogue.

During the workshop, Mr. Archie Delaney, a Data and Spatial Management Consultant supporting the NEC, delivered a presentation on “Consequences and Risks in Boundary Delimitation–International Experiences.” Drawing lessons from Papua New Guinea, Ghana, and Nigeria, he highlighted issues of population shifts, electoral integrity, political interference, inclusivity, and minority representation, linking them directly to Liberia’s context.

Mr. Delaney also examined the potential benefits of establishing an independent, impartial boundary authority, sparking debates on whether such a body should be created or whether the NEC should retain responsibility. Participants further explored required skillsets, potential conflicts of interest, and institutional capacity gaps.

Interactive simulation exercises allowed participants to draw mock boundaries, interpret maps, and reflect on how delimitation decisions can impact representation and inclusivity in Liberia’s democratic system.

At the closing session, the NEC Commissioner Ernestine Anwar Morgan underscored the importance of sustained engagement on the issue emphasizing that “boundary delimitation is a critical aspect of the electoral process, and it is essential to NEC’s mandate. I hope these conversations continue with even more stakeholders involved, so that our democratic process leading to 2029 reflects ethics, equity and integrity”.

Katherine Green, the Chief Technical Advisor of LESP, thanked participants for their strong engagement and participation which she said it points towards the next steps. Green mentioned the importance of continued collaboration noting the stakeholders’ engagement saying that it is an encouraging sign of progress.

The LESP supports national institutions and democratic processes that promote inclusive and accountable governance. It is managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women and the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), with financial support from the European Union, Ireland, and the Embassy of Sweden.