The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in Fiji has officially commenced its first operational phase following a three-month preparatory setup. With the aim of addressing the nation’s historical political turmoil and promoting healing, the TRC has recruited a team of experts across various fields including communications, finance, community engagement, and reconciliation, who will guide its efforts moving forward.
This inaugural phase includes a public awareness campaign featuring media outreach in both iTaukei and Hindi, and participation in significant events such as the Girmit Commemoration in Labasa from May 10th to 12th. To enhance public accessibility, the TRC is also providing a toll-free number and a contact form on its social media platforms, ensuring that inquiries from the public will be promptly addressed.
International support has been received from experts, including the EU Facility in Conflict and Transition, to draw from the experiences of other nations’ truth commissions. The TRC aims to focus on the impacts of past political events and human rights abuses while fostering a safe environment for individuals to share their narratives.
Furthermore, the TRC is collaborating with UNICEF Pacific and other partners to provide trauma support for victims of political violence, underscoring its commitment to healing within the community. The Commission’s overarching objective is to acknowledge the pain of survivors, enabling Fiji to move forward united.
Overall, this initiative is not just about confronting historical grievances but also about weaving together a more inclusive and cohesive social fabric for the future of Fiji. The process represents a hopeful step toward reconciliation, fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse community members, and paving the way for a shared path forward.
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