A/HRC/9/15 page 6 I. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PREVIOUS REPORT 1. The last report of the independent expert on technical cooperation and advisory services in Liberia (A/HRC/7/67) noted that the Independent National Commission on Human Rights had not been established, despite the enabling legislation dating back to 2005, and no commissioners had been appointed. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) had established a secretariat and the recruitment of an executive secretary was completed, together with the adoption of revised rules and regulations. The TRC had commenced public hearings and concern was expressed that new members of the International Technical Advisory Committee, who could provide legal capacity, were not in place. The enabling legislation for the law reform commission, which had been a stated priority under the Government’s 150-day programme, had not been drafted. Serious concerns were also expressed about the persistence of discriminatory and harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation and trial by ordeal. The lack of adequate protection for the most vulnerable and marginalized groups such as children, women and the disabled was particularly noted. The need for respect for the rule of law and specifically the need to address the weak and dysfunctional judiciary, were identified as key components of an effective promotion and protection of human rights. II. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS A. Security and political situation 2. The increase in armed robbery constitutes a significant internal security threat. The Liberian National Police (LNP) launched Operation Thunderbolt in an effort to curb this phenomenon but a long-term and sustainable strategy which takes into account the extreme poverty and the high unemployment rate in Liberia needs to be developed. 3. There are a number of other internal situations which may pose a security threat if not dealt with. The resort to violence to resolve land and property disputes, as recently witnessed in Margibi County with the killing of 14 casual labourers and further disputes in Maryland, Bong and River Cess counties, is a worrisome trend. This is a conflict resolution area deserving of attention. There is also the need for greater attention to the corrections sector. An overcrowded Monrovia Central Prison and lack of respect for the judicial guarantees of detainees are giving rise to tensions which must be addressed. B. Truth and Reconciliation Commission 4. At the time of writing public hearings have been conducted by the TRC in all counties and in the diaspora, and hearings are due to be held in Monrovia in the coming month, where witnesses who have not voluntarily provided evidence are to be subpoenaed. Furthermore an information management system has been put in place by the TRC and the statements collected, during the earlier statement-taking activities, are being analysed to determine patterns of violations. 5. Concern has been expressed about the inadequate witness and victim protection system. The independent expert has received information in relation to cases of harassment and intimidation and while an ad hoc protection system has been set up it may prove to be ineffective in the long term. Measures to provide protection need to be put in place.