Select Page

Principles to maintain independence of Truth Commission

Topic Progress:

 

Ensuring the Commission’s credibility

  • Commissions need to be credible: Societies emerging from authoritarian rule may have become accustomed to ineffective or disingenuous official inquiries established to hide evidence of crimes. The credibility of a truth commission can be supported by:
    • Selecting members with excellent moral and professional reputations
    • Guaranteeing full independence from political interference
    • Establishing transparent procedures for research
    • Establishing dialogue with civil society, in particular victims’ organisations
  • Commissions need support from stakeholders: Truth commissions require the support of national political authorities and cooperation from government agencies, in addition to the appropriate provision of resources. When commissions face difficulties during their tenure, they will necessarily rely on the trust and support of the country’s political leadership. At the same time, civil society institutions must support the truth commission’s mission while maintaining their own autonomy and vigilance.
  • Commissions should earn the respect of society: An effective truth commission requires the cooperation of a wide variety of social and political agents. At all stages of its work, from establishment to reporting, a commission should pay particular attention to outreach strategies so that its mission and achievements are understood and communities have the opportunity to offer feedback and ideas that may enrich its work. Facilitating public participation indicates there is respect for the citizenry and allows the commission to gather information and prepare policy recommendations.
  • Commissions must consistently observe a code of conduct: The operations of a truth commissions need to exemplify the new, fairer practices that citizens should expect from their government. Research, management, and public outreach must respect the fundamental standards of human rights and ensure the integrity and highest standards of professional ethics at all times. Such values and principles should be publicly proclaimed by the truth commission at the start of its operations.