Offices

Office of Public Affairs

Public Affairs Officer
Christina A. Porche

The Office of Public Affairs (OPA) of the United States Embassy in Monrovia operates primarily to promote understanding and acceptance of U.S. Government policies, goals and programs. The O.P.A. provides information to Liberian leaders from all segments of society who influence public policy and shape public opinions. The Office of Public Affairs' ultimate objective is to promote the national interests of the United States -- democracy, regional security, human rights, education, health, environmentally sustainable development, equal opportunities and free market economies.

The O.P.A. audience includes government officials, local and international media, academics, business people and leaders of non-governmental organizations. The O.P.A. utilizes a wide variety of resources to accomplish its goals -- official texts, statements, periodicals, books, CD-ROM data bases, the Internet, U.S. speakers, exchange programs, videos, teleconferences, reports and other documents on U.S. foreign policy, and International Information Program (IIP) overseas materials. Among the last are the daily Washington File, Electronic Journals, StateNet "Dialogue" conferences, live transmission of important remarks and events by U.S. officials, articles and specialized research. The independent International Broadcasting Bureau produces VOA Worldnet programs including the weekly "Straight Talk Africa" and "African Journal." In close consultation with the Ambassador's office, the O.P.A. plans and executes various public diplomacy programs such as workshops and speaker programs, as well as arranging full media coverage of the Ambassador's numerous speeches and people-to-people events.
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Our Mission

Assist in building democracy and free-market economies in societies that seek to build transparent, efficient and effective institutions.

Create and strengthen personal and institutional ties between the U.S. and Liberia, thereby increasing mutual understanding and international stability.

Explain U.S. policies and actions in ways that make sense to Liberian audiences. Present American society in all its complexity so that Liberians can understand the context of U.S. policies and actions.

Advise the U.S. President, Secretary of State, members of the National Security Council and other key officials on the implications of foreign opinion for present and contemplated United States policies.

Promote and administer educational and cultural exchange programs in the national interest.