Ukraine: Liberia moves to ensure its citizens’ safety

Africans have complained about being prevented by Ukrainian authorities from leaving the country

Liberia is engaging in frantic diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens in Ukraine, including about 200 students.

The Liberian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has requested Ukraine’s neighbors, Poland and Hungary, to grant safe passage and humanitarian assistance to Liberians who reach their respective borders fleeing the Ukraine-Russia military hostility.

In furtherance of the government’s diplomatic efforts, Hungary has granted temporary protection to Liberians who will enter the country without the legal Schengen visa. 

According to a press release issued today by Information Minister Ledgerhood J. Rennie, Poland has also agreed to grant entry of Liberians and allow them a 15-day stay while applying for an international protection status or deciding to depart the country.

The Liberian government said while these initial diplomatic arrangements and measures are underway, plans are also afoot to repatriate Liberians fleeing the fighting. 

The government, through its ministries of foreign affairs and education, has begun the process of engaging relatives and friends of Liberians in Ukraine to assist in the creation of a database for the purpose of facilitating the students’ safe exit and refuge.