Youth Participation in African Legal Systems of Liberia: A Qualitative Exploration

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in understanding how African customary law interacts with formal legal systems, particularly in contexts where traditional and modern justice mechanisms coexist. This qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with a diverse sample of young people aged between 18 and 35 who have direct experience in traditional legal systems. Data analysis involves thematic coding to identify recurring themes and patterns. Findings indicate that youth participation significantly influences the direction and outcomes of legal proceedings, often bringing innovative solutions and community perspectives to cases. However, they face significant challenges including limited formal education and systemic barriers to accessing justice. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of fostering greater youth engagement in traditional legal systems to enhance their effectiveness and inclusivity. Recommendations include training programmes for young legal practitioners, policy reforms that recognise youth contributions, and increased community outreach initiatives to build trust between young people and formal justice systems.