Sweden has announced that it will end its bilateral development assistance to Liberia by 2026 and close its embassy in Monrovia, creating uncertainty for Sierra Leone, which is served by the same mission.
In a statement released by the Embassy of Sweden in Monrovia, the government said the decision was driven by reduced funding for global development cooperation and a shift in foreign policy priorities. Similar budget cuts are being applied in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Tanzania.
‘Difficult decision’ driven by funding constraints
The embassy said the move “has not been taken lightly” and stressed that it is not connected to political events in Liberia or the surrounding region. It described the changes as part of a wider realignment of Sweden’s international commitments.
Bilateral operations in Liberia will end by August 2026. Sweden will, however, continue to support the country through its contributions to multilateral organisations and the European Union.
Impact on Sierra Leone remains unclear
The embassy in Monrovia also oversees relations with Sierra Leone. Its closure means Sweden has not yet explained how future diplomatic and development cooperation with Sierra Leone will be managed.
Sweden has been an important partner to both Liberia and Sierra Leone, supporting projects in governance, human rights, education, gender equality and civil society development.
Analysts say the closure could result in changes to how Swedish-funded programmes in Sierra Leone are coordinated, although no direct cuts to Sierra Leone have been announced.
Sweden promises continued ties despite cuts
Despite the phase-out of bilateral aid, Sweden said it would make “every effort” to preserve strong relations with Liberia. It added that future cooperation may focus more on trade, business engagement and shared values.
The embassy noted that Sweden remains a “steadfast partner” and highlighted long-standing historic ties between the two countries.
Regional consequences expected
Sweden’s decision forms part of a broader reduction in development spending. The government says the cuts are necessary to align resources with new foreign policy priorities and address financial pressures at home.
For Sierra Leone, the embassy closure leaves an open question about how Swedish cooperation will be handled after 2026. Local organisations and government bodies are now awaiting further clarification from Stockholm.
