The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), in collaboration with the EHRC–CSOs Coordination Platform Transitional Justice (TJ) sub-group members, organized a consultative forum on March 24, 2026, in Addis Ababa to commemorate the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims. The discussion aimed to enhance stakeholders’ understanding of the critical role that the right to the truth plays within the transitional justice process. Participants included victims, transitional justice experts, and representatives from civil society organizations, victims’ associations, and development partners.
The discussion featured detailed presentations on the significance of the right to truth in ensuring accountability, fostering reconciliation, and preventing the recurrence of human rights violations. In particular, extensive discussions were held on the conditions necessary to ensure the active participation of victims and vulnerable groups throughout the transitional justice process. Furthermore, a screening of the documentary film “Confronting the Truth“, produced and directed by Steve York, edited and co-produced by Joseph Wiedenmayer, served as a catalyst for dialogue, providing participants with deeper insights into the role of truth commissions, the nexus between truth, justice, and accountability, and the importance of engaging victims and survivors in truth-seeking efforts.
Participants emphasized that authorities responsible for truth-seeking within Ethiopia’s transitional justice framework must ensure the process is transparent, responsive, and grounded in human rights principles. They urged that the design of the process be inclusive and participatory, reflecting the lived experiences and needs of victims and affected communities. It was further noted that, beyond merely acknowledging the harm suffered, empowering victims to actively shape the design of justice mechanisms is essential for the overall effectiveness of the process.
Kalkidan Dereje, EHRC Chief of Staff, underscored that truth-seeking and formal acknowledgment are indispensable for societal reconciliation. She noted that transitional justice extends beyond legal responses to past violations; it is a vital instrument for restoring dignity and rebuilding trust among communities. She further reaffirmed EHRC’s commitment to working with partners to strengthen support for victims and to continue expanding platforms for awareness and dialogue on these critical issues.