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A Search for Truth: A Critical Analysis of the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission

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Abstract

In Liberia, much debate has surrounded the truth and reconciliation commission both in the challenges that it faced during its operational stage as well as in the issues surrounding the release and content of its report. This article will critically examine the establishment, proceedings, and findings of the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission in order to draw conclusions regarding what lessons can be learned, what could have been done to make the commission more effective, and how we can learn from this example in applying transitional justice mechanisms for future African conflicts.

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Correspondence to Carla De Ycaza.

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De Ycaza, C. A Search for Truth: A Critical Analysis of the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Hum Rights Rev 14, 189–212 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12142-013-0268-0

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