ABSTRACT
This chapter examines environmental peacebuilding to date in Liberia. It discusses how large-scale resource extraction – as well as industrial agriculture – emerged as the key to spurring the economic growth and development deemed crucial to peace and stability. The chapter argues, however, that the Liberian case starkly demonstrates the challenges and complexities inherent in leveraging resources for peace and development. It highlights that while attention to natural resources did help to end the outright plunder of Liberia's resources and begin the vital process of legal and regulatory reform, disagreements over the specifics of resource extraction. The chapter also highlights how it is felt on the ground remain deeply contentious and hard to overcome. The causes of the conflict in Liberia defy simple explanation. However, it has been widely linked to the country's vast natural resources. Timber extraction was perceived by international actors to be a threat to Liberia's peace and security.
