Sustainable Development Goal 16 and The Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Documentation’s Role in Promoting A Democratic Society
Abstract as pdf
Corresponding Author:
Proscovia Svärd
Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Information systems and Technology, Forum for Digitalization Sweden
Proscovia.Svard@miun.se
Author(s):
Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) is about peace, justice and inclusive and strong government institutions. This study aims to examine how the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC’s) documentation could be used to address its dark past and to promote a culture that respects human rights and a democratic society through inclusive government institutions. The citizens of Liberia in West Africa, suffered from a protracted civil war that was partly due to economic deprivation, repression and poverty. This civil war was characterized by extreme violence and violation of human rights that led to substantial civilian deaths, extensive damage to health, education systems and internal and external displacement and child soldiers through forced conscription. To address the atrocities committed against the citizens of Liberia and the violation of human rights laws, a Truth and Reconciliation Commission was sanctioned by the Liberian government. TRCs are temporary institutions set up to establish the truth by documenting patterns of past violations, their causes and consequences. They offer victims, perpetrators and witnesses a platform to recount their experiences. These narratives are meant to create an understanding of the causes of war, counteract political speculations, facilitate reconciliation and healing, and promote a democratic society with inclusive government institutions and development for all.
Keywords: Truth and Reconciliation Commissions, Archives, Documentation, Human Rights, Liberia and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Towards what futures? The political dimensions of sustainable development and resilience