Justice and Transitional Democracy: Two Pillars of the Shift to Stability

Abstract

Abstract: Transitional justice and transitional democracy represent two complementary pathways in the process of transitioning from authoritarian regimes or armed conflicts towards the establishment of sustainable states based on the rule of law and citizenship. Transitional justice seeks to address past violations through mechanisms such as accountability, reparation, and truth-telling to achieve societal reconciliation. In contrast, transitional democracy creates a political environment that ensures citizen participation in decision-making, respects human rights, and establishes democratic institutional systems. However, the challenges lie in reconciling justice and peace, and ensuring the continuity of democratic transition without setbacks. The integration of these two pathways is essential to overcoming the legacy of the past and building a future characterized by justice and stability.