Post-Conflict Peace Building and Transitional Justice in Liberia

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VII, Issue III, March 2020 | ISSN 2321–2705

Post-Conflict Peace Building and Transitional Justice in Liberia

Baala, Gawuga Thompson* & Asuk, Otokpom Charles
Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, Faculty of Humanities, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
*Corresponding author

Abstract:-The secession of hostility and ceasefire are among early formal steps in the conflict resolution process but genuine post-conflict peace building should address issues of justice and accountability for crimes committed by actors. Most states emerging from civil wars in Africa often ignore the issue of justice or treat accountability as one that opens old wounds. A notable consequence has always been a resurgence of conflict even worse than its early phase because justice was neither served nor forgiveness secured. This study examines transitional justice and post conflict peace building in Liberia. Using the constructivist theory, it examines the Liberian post-conflict justice regime and the pivotal role of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) established to complement the country’s weak and delegitimized justice system between 2005 and 2009. Thus, the study demonstrates that a weak and war ravaged state can construct regime, strengthen it weak institutions and refuse to rely on private or public foreign templates for justice and accountability. The study draws on both primary and secondary sources of data to conclude that the post-conflict peace building process entrenched peace in Liberia. It also argues that the process was initiated by the locale especially the conflict parties and supported by the international community. The study recommends Liberia’s transitional justice regime to other African states in similar crises.

Keywords: Foreign intervention, Post-conflict Peace-building, Transitional Justice

I. INTRODUCTION

Liberia demonstrated that even weak and war ravaged states can construct regime for the purpose of peace building without necessarily and solely depending on intervention from foreign powers. The decision to address the issue of post-conflict peace building by the war ravaged state forestalls further erosion of sovereignty. The conflict in Liberia ended in 2003 with some levels of desperation due to the neared absence of a legitimate authority. It was not far from reality that the country could relapse into further crisis ifthe issues of justice and accountability for combatants differed at the Liberian National Dialogue (LND) were not properly handled.

Read More