Liberian NGOs challenge carbon market policy over community rights concerns

In April 2026, the NGO Coalition of Liberia urged President Joseph Boakai to defer endorsement of the country's Draft Carbon Market Policy, citing a lack of genuine, inclusive, and credible national validation. Over 46,000 people have signed a petition supporting this call, organised by Rainforest Rescue. Civil society organisations remain concerned about land rights, revenue sharing, and free, prior, and informed consent for communities affected by carbon trading. The policy's development involved technical support from the Coalition for Rainforest Nations and Gordian Knot Strategies, with the African Development Bank denying claims of pressuring Liberia to pass the framework. UNDP Liberia is also working with the Carbon Market Authority to advance carbon market development, aiming to translate natural capital into sustainable economic value for communities.