Transitional Justice in Rwanda and South Africa: The Role of Civil Society in Reconciliation
A notable aspect in the areas of peacebuilding and human rights has been the development of research in the field of transitional justice. The majority of literature in the field of transitional justice has focused on the role governments play in these processes. Participation by non state actors, especially civil society, has been researched to a lesser extent. This research features a comparative case study assessing the role civil society has played in the development of the Gacaca courts in Rwanda and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. By focusing on the roles of data collection and monitoring, representation and advocacy, and collaboration, civil society contributions to the process of reconciliation will be examined.