Region: Western Africa

Capital: Monrovia

Population: 3 390635 (July 2004 est.)

Surface area: 111 369 square km

Currency: dollar

GDP per capita: $1 000 (2003 est.)

Background:
In August 2003, a comprehensive peace agreement ended 14 years of civil war and prompted the resignation of former president Charles TAYLOR, who was exiled to Nigeria. The National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) - which is composed of rebel, government, and civil society groups - assumed control in October 2003. The new political situation and the arrival of a UN mission are all encouraging signs that the political crisis is coming to an end.

Economy – overview:
Civil war and misgovernment have destroyed much of Liberia's economy, especially the infrastructure in and around Monrovia. Many businessmen have fled the country, taking capital and expertise with them. Some have returned, but many will not. Richly endowed with water, mineral resources, forests, and a climate favourable to agriculture, Liberia had been a producer and exporter of basic products - primarily raw timber and rubber. Local manufacturing, mainly foreign owned, has been small in scope.

The restoration of infrastructure and the raising of incomes in this ravaged economy depend on the implementation of sound macro- and micro-economic policies, including the encouragement of foreign investment, and generous support from donor countries.

United Nations Membership date: 2 November 1945

New York Mission:
Permanent Mission of Liberia to the United Nations
820 Second Avenue, 13th Floor
New York, N.Y. 10017 USA
Telephone: 212-687-1033 / 1034
Fax: 212-687-1035 / 1846