Mr. Joaquim Da Fonseca was officially sworn in as the new Chair of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission this morning at a ceremony held at State House, attended by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu. With a distinguished background as a diplomat and peace-builder, Mr. Da Fonseca brings over 20 years of expertise in reconciliation, transitional justice, and human rights, particularly in post-conflict settings.
His dedication to reconciliation is notably illustrated by his significant contributions to Timor-Leste’s reconciliation efforts since 1999. This began with his involvement in early truth and reconciliation initiatives during the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) and extended to shaping national mechanisms that have played a crucial role in the country’s ongoing healing process.
In addition to his role in reconciliation, Mr. Da Fonseca has held prominent diplomatic positions including Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to both the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, as well as serving as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva. His diplomatic career has been characterized by successful partnerships between civil society, governmental bodies, and international organizations, working collaboratively towards justice and social cohesion.
Before his recent appointment, Mr. Da Fonseca worked as the Coordinator and Senior Adviser at the National Commission for Reconciliation among Timorese, where he was instrumental in designing a new national reconciliation mechanism that addressed internal conflicts from 1974 to 1999. This role built upon the legacy established by the Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation (CAVR). Furthermore, he has served as a Senior Adviser for Human Rights and Civil Society within the Office of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission operates as an independent entity, with the Coalition Government pledging to provide sufficient resources to support its essential work. Established under the Truth and Reconciliation Act passed in December 2024, the Commission is charged with promoting truth-telling regarding political upheavals linked to coup periods since 1987, as well as fostering healing, closure, and national reconciliation for survivors of those tumultuous events.
Mr. Da Fonseca’s appointment is a promising development for Fiji as it seeks to navigate its history and promote unity and healing within its society. His vast experience and commitment to reconciliation will undoubtedly be instrumental in leading the Commission’s objectives.
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