Monrovia – A brand new Afrobarometer survey reveals a blended public notion of Liberia’s present financial and dwelling circumstances. Nonetheless, the findings additionally spotlight a rising sense of optimism amongst residents concerning the future.
By Persistence M. Jones, Contributing Author
The ballot, performed between July 30 and August 21, 2024, reveals a big shift in nationwide sentiment. The proportion of Liberians who imagine the nation is on target has doubled—from 25% in 2022 to 50% in 2024. This 25-percentage-point improve displays a notable rise in public confidence concerning the nation’s trajectory.
Regardless of this optimistic shift, opinions stay divided on the state of the economic system. About 45% of respondents described present financial circumstances as “pretty good” or “superb,” whereas a barely bigger share—48%—rated them as “pretty dangerous” or “very dangerous.” This near-even break up underscore the advanced and uneven nature of Liberia’s financial restoration.
Equally, views on private dwelling circumstances are additionally break up. Roughly 46% of respondents mentioned their dwelling circumstances had been good, whereas an equal share mentioned in any other case. Notably, 41% of these surveyed reported an enchancment of their lifestyle over the previous yr, in comparison with one-third who mentioned their state of affairs had worsened.
Regardless of these conflicting assessments, a majority of Liberians stay hopeful concerning the close to future. Sixty-one p.c of respondents expressed optimism that the nationwide economic system will enhance inside the subsequent yr. This sentiment is additional supported by the 41% who imagine their private dwelling circumstances are already higher than a yr in the past.
Afrobarometer, an unbiased pan-African analysis community that measures public attitudes on democracy, governance, and financial improvement, surveyed a nationally consultant pattern of 1,200 grownup Liberians. The outcomes carry a margin of error of ±3 share factors at a 95% confidence degree.
Liberia’s outcomes align with broader developments seen throughout the continent, the place residents specific each concern and cautious hope amid evolving political and financial landscapes. Since 1999, Afrobarometer has performed related surveys in as much as 42 African nations, with its newest spherical launched in January 2024.
As Liberia navigates its post-election period and financial challenges, the survey paints an image of a nation grappling with uncertainty however buoyed by a resilient sense of hope.
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