By Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia – ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) is facing intense scrutiny and public backlash as it prepares to appear before a Joint Legislative Committee on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. The hearing stems from widespread allegations of poor labor conditions, inadequate community development, and unmet commitments outlined in its Mineral Development Agreement (MDA). This could mark a pivotal moment for concession accountability in Liberia.
For nearly two decades, AML, a multinational steel giant, has operated in Liberia, but residents in Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa Counties accuse the company of a “blatant disregard” for human dignity and corporate responsibility. Community leaders, civil society advocates, and employees have come forward with serious accusations of exploitative labor practices, particularly concerning substandard housing for workers at its operational hub.
Sources on the ground confirm that many AML workers are living in dilapidated and unsafe housing units. These structures reportedly suffer from collapsed roofs, broken sanitation systems, and hazardous electrical wiring. Despite repeated complaints, there has been no significant action from the company to address these issues.
“It’s a humanitarian concern now,” stated a civil society advocate in Nimba County. “These are not conditions fit for anyone, let alone workers contributing to one of the most profitable concessions in Liberia.”
Frustration is mounting among the people of Bong, Grand Bassa, and Nimba – the host counties for AML’s mining operations. Local youth groups, elders, and education advocates are demanding transparency regarding the company’s commitments to train Liberians and provide scholarships for study abroad, promises that were integral to AML securing its initial concession agreement.
“There is no public record of how many Liberians have been trained by ArcelorMittal, particularly in Bong County where the railway infrastructure passes through,” an unnamed lawmaker revealed. “And no clear report exists on how many scholarships they’ve provided over the years. It’s time we hold them accountable.”
The Joint Committee on Investment and Concessions of the House of Representatives, alongside the Committees on Lands, Mines, Energy, Natural Resources, Environment, and Labor, has officially summoned AML for a concession compliance hearing. The session is scheduled to take place in the 1st Floor Conference Room at the Capitol Building.
AML has been instructed to present a comprehensive financial report detailing its operations in Liberia over the past five years, along with documentation of its compliance with the MDA.
“This is not just a routine hearing,” asserted Representative Isaac B. Zaway, chair of one of the committees. “This is about justice, dignity, and ensuring that the people of Liberia – especially those in affected counties – receive the benefits they were promised.”
Critics argue that AML’s relationship with Liberia has been characterized by an imbalance, with the company extracting significant wealth while allegedly providing minimal returns to local communities. Activists point to poor road conditions, a lack of investment in public infrastructure, and limited local employment opportunities.
“We have been patient for too long,” said a traditional leader in Yekepa. “Every year they promise to do better, and every year we see the same suffering.”
Reports from independent monitors and NGOs suggest that while AML has contributed to some corporate social responsibility projects, the scale and impact of those initiatives fall far below expectations for a company of its size.
In addition to the hearing, civil society organizations and opposition lawmakers are pushing for an independent audit of AML’s community development obligations, workforce training programs, and revenue declarations. Some are even advocating for a revision of the Mineral Development Agreement if the company is found to be in breach.
“If AML cannot live up to the basic standards of corporate responsibility, then maybe they shouldn’t be operating here,” argued a youth leader in Grand Bassa County. “We cannot be poor in the midst of wealth.”
As the hearing date approaches, public sentiment continues to build, with radio talk shows and social media platforms across Liberia demanding accountability and respect for labor rights. The Liberia Labour Congress and the National Civil Society Council have both issued statements urging lawmakers to ensure a transparent process and concrete outcomes.
There is also growing pressure on President Joseph Boakai’s administration to intervene. While the Boakai government has pledged to reform the concessions sector, critics argue that more decisive actions are needed to protect citizens from corporate abuse.
At the time of publication, ArcelorMittal Liberia had not issued a public response to the latest allegations. A company spokesperson previously told reporters that AML “remains committed to fulfilling its obligations under the Mineral Development Agreement,” but declined to comment on the specific claims regarding worker housing and training programs.
Analysts believe AML’s global image could suffer significantly if these issues escalate without resolution. Liberia’s concession sector has long been marred by controversy, and the outcome of AML’s case may serve as a crucial test for whether the country’s institutions are capable of holding large multinational corporations accountable.
As Liberians await the hearing, all eyes are on the Capitol. Lawmakers are under pressure not only to extract answers but to push for tangible action, including penalties, renegotiations, or even suspension of operations, should AML be found to have violated its obligations. For workers still living in substandard homes and communities still waiting for the promised benefits of natural resource extraction, this hearing may represent their final opportunity to reclaim dignity and demand justice.