Transitional Justice and Social Cohesion: Assessing Truth Commissions in Post-Conflict Townships

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 5, No. 9, September 2014 | pp. 397–405

DOI: 10.46882/2014/GJPCS/000066

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Transitional Justice and Social Cohesion: Assessing Truth Commissions in Post-Conflict Townships

Names of Authors: Thabo Mbeki Smith¹, Manuel Rodriguez²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; ²Department of Psychology, Central American University, San Salvador, El Salvador

Abstract: Abstract: Transitional justice mechanisms are frequently implemented with the assumption that exposing historical truths automatically fosters community reconciliation. This study empirically examines the long-term impact of truth and reconciliation commissions on local social cohesion within selected post-conflict townships. Data were gathered using a multi-stage cluster sampling approach, surveying 600 respondents alongside 15 focus group discussions. Quantitative indicators measured interpersonal trust, institutional legitimacy, and perceptions of justice on a 5-point Likert scale. The statistical findings reveal a complex reality: while institutional truth-seeking was highly valued, actual social cohesion scores remained modest (Mean = 2.8 ± 0.6). Correlation matrices indicated that unresolved economic disparities had a strong negative correlation with community reconciliation scores (r = -0.58, p < 0.01). The empirical evidence demonstrates that legal amnesty without corresponding economic reparations undermines the perceived legitimacy of transitional justice. This research concludes that truth commissions must be strictly integrated with structural socio-economic reforms to achieve deep-rooted reconciliation. These insights provide a cautionary framework for designing future transitional justice programs in nations transitioning away from systemic institutional oppression.

Keywords: Transitional Justice, Social Cohesion, Truth Commissions, Reconciliation, Economic Reparations, Post-Conflict Reconstruction

Manuscript Timeline: Received: April 10, 2014; Revised: June 15, 2014; Accepted: July 20, 2014; Published: September 06, 2014

Citation: Smith, T. M., & Rodriguez, M. (2014). Transitional Justice and Social Cohesion: Assessing Truth Commissions in Post-Conflict Townships. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 5(9), 397–405. DOI: 10.46882/2014/GJPCS/000066

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