Robbie Corey-Boulet is a freelance journalist who has reported from Cambodia, Kenya and Liberia on a range of issues, focusing in particular on international justice and human rights. His long-form writing has been published by Guernica, TheAtlantic.com, Asia Literary Review and The Caravan. Selected articles can be viewed at www.robbiecoreyboulet.com. He can be found on Twitter at @robbiecb31.
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton traveled to West Africa this week to highlight the Obama administration’s efforts to promote democratic institutions and credible elections. But in Liberia, a staunch ally that receives more than $200 million annually in American foreign assistance, the conversation prior to the visit concerned the U.S. effort to combat the criminalization of homosexuality overseas. more
As she seeks a second term in tomorrow's election, Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf's chances could hinge largely on whether voters believe she has kept her promise to improve living conditions for ordinary Liberians. Looking back on the past six years, few would dispute that there have been significant gains. But it remains to be seen whether this is the type of progress that can ensure her re-election.
moreFor observers and advocates of the International Criminal Court, the Feb. 26 U.N. Security Council resolution imposing sanctions on Libya was nothing short of a breakthrough: It marked the first time a decision to refer crimes to the ICC was backed by all members -- including the United States, which has been openly hostile to the court for much of its existence. Can the U.S. now be counted among the court's staunch allies? more