Optimizing the Transitional Justice Approach: A Research-Based Approach to Effective Peacebuilding

Rebecca Russavage, Brigham Young University
Mallory Matheson, Brigham Young University
Jenna Rakuita, Brigham Young University
Kjersti Hodgson, Brigham Young University

Abstract

Transitional justice remains subject to continual assessment and evaluation given its developing methodology and framework in both theory and practice.

This constant development often causes practitioners to feel overwhelmed as they seek the best ways to approach its implementation while lacking an evidence-based methodology. To assist in actualizing research and practical techniques, academics can provide practitioners with research designed for immediate, direct implementation in the field. While respecting the individual needs and constrictions created by cultural differences, it is our opinion that research can isolate certain fundamental practices that are both universally applicable and beneficial to facilitating the transition between conflict and peace.

In this paper, we propose the creation of a research-based interactive toolkit for countries in transitional justice situations. While suggesting that similar structures be created for each additional sector of the transitional justice process, we will focus on providing a guiding framework for creating future truth commissions. As more than thirty countries have utilized truth commissions with varying degrees of success, this framework will address practices to improve various aspects of the truth commission process, such as the final report, victims’ experience during testifying procedure, and implementing the recommended reparations.

We will attempt to account for all relevant variables that would affect the planned implementation of such a process and suggest possible methods of addressing each variable in the design of the commission and the comprehensive goals for the future of transitional justice.

 
Nov 10th, 8:30 AM

Optimizing the Transitional Justice Approach: A Research-Based Approach to Effective Peacebuilding

Transitional justice remains subject to continual assessment and evaluation given its developing methodology and framework in both theory and practice.

This constant development often causes practitioners to feel overwhelmed as they seek the best ways to approach its implementation while lacking an evidence-based methodology. To assist in actualizing research and practical techniques, academics can provide practitioners with research designed for immediate, direct implementation in the field. While respecting the individual needs and constrictions created by cultural differences, it is our opinion that research can isolate certain fundamental practices that are both universally applicable and beneficial to facilitating the transition between conflict and peace.

In this paper, we propose the creation of a research-based interactive toolkit for countries in transitional justice situations. While suggesting that similar structures be created for each additional sector of the transitional justice process, we will focus on providing a guiding framework for creating future truth commissions. As more than thirty countries have utilized truth commissions with varying degrees of success, this framework will address practices to improve various aspects of the truth commission process, such as the final report, victims’ experience during testifying procedure, and implementing the recommended reparations.

We will attempt to account for all relevant variables that would affect the planned implementation of such a process and suggest possible methods of addressing each variable in the design of the commission and the comprehensive goals for the future of transitional justice.