TRC Essay

Truth and Reconciliation in South Africa 

Is South Africa’s TRC a good model for justice and reconciliation in a post-authoritarian society? What were the advantages and disadvantages? 

Essay Assignment:

Based on what you know about the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions, to what extent do did this serve justice in South Africa? Are the Commissions a model for rectifying past violence and helping to develop a stable democracy? In answering these questions, consider justice for victims, survivors, perpetrators, the world at large, and future generations.

Themes:

Human vs. Animal (Dehumanization - Re-humanization)

Individual Justice vs. National Healing

Truth as Healing for Victims and Perpetrators

Blurred line between Victim and Perpetrators

Forgiveness from Victims vs. Amnesty from State

Cycles of Suffering