Lessons from Liberia’s Transitional Justice Process

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the comparative case study of the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission and key findings related to efforts to engage displaced populations at various levels, with the objective of conceptualizing a locally driven transitional justice process for Syria. The following questions were used to guide the analysis of the Liberian case: (1) Were displaced populations consulted on or involved in the design of transitional justice initiatives?; (2) Did displaced populations provide input as witnesses transitional justice processes?; (3) Were truth commission sessions convened in refugee camps?; (4) Were truth commissions convened in countries with large diaspora populations?; (5) Were information and communication technologies employed to support the involvement of displaced populations in dispersed geographic locations?; and (6) Were displaced persons appointed to positions of responsibility in transitional justice bodies and coexistence projects?