Many Fijians born prior to 2006 have experienced at least one coup during their lifetime. This turbulent period has woven itself into the country’s history, leading to instability, family separations, and increased tensions between the largest ethnic groups. The Coalition Government is now taking steps to address these past injustices and to initiate difficult discussions about Fiji’s current situation and future aspirations.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), though a new concept for many Fijians—some expressing skepticism about its necessity—is not an unfamiliar idea globally. This week marked the beginning of consultations on the draft legal framework for establishing the TRC. According to Ruben Carranza, a senior expert from the International Center for Transitional Justice, it is essential that the TRC reflects Fiji’s unique historical context.
Mr. Carranza, who has extensive experience in transitional justice, is part of the team conducting national consultations about the proposed TRC framework. He has worked on similar initiatives in various countries emerging from conflict or authoritarian rule, including Liberia, Kenya, and South Africa.
During the consultations, Mr. Carranza clarified that the TRC will not function like a court and will hold no prosecutorial powers. Instead, it aims to provide a safe environment for both victims and perpetrators to come forward and share their stories, focusing on events and their repercussions from 1987 onward.
Highlighting the practical challenges of litigation, Mr. Carranza noted that many cases from decades past would likely never make it to court. He explained that his work focuses on facilitating transitions away from violence, whether through political change or direct conflict.
Drawing from his experience in East Timor during its transition in 1999, he recounted the aftermath of the independence referendum, which resulted in widespread violence and displacement. His role then involved assessing whether the Philippines would lead a peacekeeping mission, culminating in the establishment of a truth commission aimed at fostering reconciliation.
Mr. Carranza stressed that any truth commission should be tailored to reflect the local socio-political landscape. He reiterated that a truth commission’s purpose is to acknowledge the experiences of victims rather than determine guilt or impose penalties.
Using Sri Lanka as an example, he pointed out that past human rights abuses, such as enforced disappearances during the civil war, required acknowledgment and attention, highlighting the importance of listening to victims’ accounts.
The primary goal of the TRC, he stated, is to hear and recognize the stories of those affected by political violence, contrasting this with the role of courts that deal with ordinary crimes. He emphasized the importance of media involvement in disseminating information about the TRC and reinforcing its mission.
With the TRC expected to operate for 18 months and deliver a report of findings, Mr. Carranza invited public participation in the process. He pointed out that consultations must adapt to contemporary forms of communication, encouraging dialogue especially among youth through social media platforms.
Through effective engagement, he believes the TRC can play a critical role in enabling societal healing and shaping a constructive path forward for Fiji.