The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in Fiji is preparing to enhance its outreach by conducting hearings and collecting testimonies from former Fijians living abroad. TRC Chairperson Dr. Marcus Brand confirmed that these efforts will primarily focus on individuals in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, based on responses received through Contact Forms from overseas citizens. This endeavor aims to facilitate healing and reconciliation for survivors of Fiji’s political upheavals.
Dr. Brand has noted that while the commission aims to gather input from as many people as possible, logistical challenges will limit the breadth of its outreach. Nonetheless, he emphasized the importance of engaging survivors, both within Fiji and those residing internationally, in the truth-telling process regarding the past coups.
The TRC was established following the passage of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act of 2024, approved in Parliament last December. Its primary objective is to promote social cohesion and heal divisions by fostering open discussions about the political conflicts that have historically affected Fijian society. This Commission is seen as a crucial step towards addressing long-standing grievances and is expected to encourage trust and unity among community members.
The Commission is also set to kick off its operational phase this May, as noted earlier in related articles. It has been underscored that this process will not only look to uncover historical truths but also contribute to a more inclusive and cohesive future for Fiji as a whole. The hope is that by acknowledging past injustices and facilitating dialogues, the Commission will pave the way for reconciliation and healing across diverse communities in Fiji.
As the TRC embarks on this journey, there is optimism that each step taken will support the nation’s recovery from its tumultuous past, allowing for a collective understanding and improved relationships among all Fijians.
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