One of the main responsibilities of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) will be to investigate the nature, origins, root causes, and accountability related to human rights violations that took place during coup periods. This was highlighted in the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill, which was presented in Parliament last Friday.
According to the Bill, “The functions of the commission are to create enabling spaces and a supportive environment for survivors to share their stories, experiences, and trauma, while engaging all relevant parties in the reconciliation process.” The commission will investigate the nature, origins, root causes, and accountability for the human rights abuses that occurred during the coup periods and establish a platform for social accountability through constructive dialogue among survivors.
Furthermore, the commission aims to recognize and encourage the importance of cultural, traditional, and religious forms of reconciliation, healing, and justice. It will also provide trauma support services, including faith-based or pastoral assistance, counseling, translators, sign language interpreters, and other support mechanisms for survivors.
In addition, the commission will evaluate the sectoral impacts of human rights violations on health, education, legal systems, and other areas, while maintaining a focus on individual survivors. It will recommend policy options or measures to prevent the recurrence of situations similar to those experienced during the coup periods and work towards fostering a culture of truth, reconciliation, and healing for anyone affected by the events of that time.