Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Restoring Peace and Protecting Lives in Post-War Liberia

In 2005, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history as Africa's first elected female head of state. Her election was symbolic and came at a pivotal moment in Liberia's history. The country was emerging from two brutal civil wars that had killed over 250,000 people and displaced millions. 

Sirleaf inherited a nation on its knees. And yet, over her 12-year presidency, she led Liberia from chaos to calm, laying the foundation for peace that has endured.

One of her most remarkable achievements was overseeing Liberia’s first peaceful, democratic power transfer in 73 years. In 2017, when she handed over leadership to President George Weah, it was a turning point in Liberia’s democratic journey. A country once torn apart by violence had managed a peaceful transition, under the steady guidance of a woman who believed in the power of reconciliation, the rule of law, and nation-building.

Sirleaf didn’t stop at stabilizing the country. She also confronted one of Liberia’s most deeply rooted issues: gender-based violence. In a bold and compassionate move, she signed Executive Order No. 92, a sweeping policy against domestic violence. The order expanded legal protections not only against physical and sexual abuse, but also against economic, emotional, and psychological harm. It was a recognition of the full spectrum of violence that many women, men, and children silently endure.

As with all leaders, Sirleaf’s leadership was not perfect and had its challenges, but her vision was rooted in healing, justice, and inclusion.

Her legacy raises an essential question and the theme of this series:

What happens when women lead?

In Liberia, peace holds, democracy strengthens, and lives are protected.