Welcome to the Legislative Committee on Gender Equity, Child Development, and Social Services
The Legislative Committee on Gender Equity, Child Development, and Social Services of the House of Representatives, chaired by Hon. Moima Dabah Briggs Mensah, plays a vital role in advancing inclusive and people-centered legislation in Liberia. The Committee is committed to promoting gender equality, protecting children’s rights, and championing social justice through active oversight, responsive lawmaking, and advocacy.
A central focus under Hon. Briggs Mensah’s leadership is the introduction of a landmark Anti-Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) bill—a bold and necessary step to criminalize FGM and shield women and girls from lifelong physical and psychological harm. According to UNICEF, more than 38% of Liberian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM, often during childhood and without their informed consent. This legislation seeks to end this harmful practice and establish firm legal protections for women and girls across the country.
“No tradition or cultural norm should come at the cost of a woman or girl’s dignity, safety, or future. This legislation is about empowering them to live free from harm, and to thrive in a society that respects their rights.”
— Hon. Moima Dabah Briggs Mensah, Chair, Gender Equity, Child Development, and Social Services Committee
By enacting progressive laws and working in collaboration with civil society, international partners, and local communities, the Committee envisions a Liberia where every child is safeguarded, and every woman and girl is empowered to live with dignity and equal opportunity.