The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was created to address and bring to light the human rights violations and atrocities committed during periods of deep national conflict, with the key aim of healing and reconciling divided societies. There are notable TRCs in two primary contexts:
- South Africa (established in 1995): The TRC was created by the new South African government after apartheid to help heal the country and bring reconciliation by uncovering the truth about human rights abuses committed from 1960 to 1994. It focused on gathering evidence and testimonies from both victims and perpetrators, promoting transparency and national healing, rather than prosecuting individuals for past crimes. The commission aimed to establish an impartial historical record, grant amnesty to those who fully disclosed politically motivated crimes, and recommend reparations for victims.
- Canada (established in 2008): The TRC was created as part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement to investigate and document the full extent of the harm caused by the residential school system to Indigenous peoples. Its purpose was to inform all Canadians about the truth of residential school experiences, promote reconciliation, provide a platform for survivors' testimonies, and propose measures to prevent future abuses. The commission worked to build a truthful historical record and support healing for survivors and their communities.
In summary, TRCs are established to uncover truth, promote healing, and foster reconciliation in societies that have experienced grave human rights abuses, with a restorative justice approach emphasizing truth-telling and reconciliation over punishment.
