Fundamental Rights and Equality in Liberia
A plain-language introduction to constitutional rights, equal protection, freedom, due process and the relationship between human rights and law reform.
Rights in the Constitution
Chapter III of Liberia's Constitution sets out fundamental rights. Article 11 affirms equality and entitlement to fundamental rights irrespective of characteristics identified in the Constitution, and recognises equal protection of the law.
Rights operate within a legal framework
Constitutional rights include protections relating to liberty, security, expression, due process and property. Some rights are subject to qualifications contained in the Constitution itself.
Equality and gender justice
Equality before the law is a constitutional principle. Law reform can be needed where legislation is discriminatory, produces unequal effects, conflicts with constitutional protections or fails to address present-day realities.
Liberia also has legislation affecting women's rights within statutory and customary legal frameworks, including laws concerning customary marriage and inheritance.
Access to courts and due process
The Constitution protects due process. Courts apply constitutional and statutory rules to actual disputes and determine remedies where legally available.
What this guide cannot do
Whether a particular act is unconstitutional or discriminatory depends on facts and law. This guide helps users identify the relevant framework but does not decide a complaint or replace legal advice.