How the AU can promote transitional justice in South Sudan

Given the AU’s understanding of the need for localised solutions, its facilitator role should be maximised.

The African Union is mandated to help South Sudan to ensure accountability for past human rights abuses through the establishment of a hybrid court. This mandate is derived from the Agreement for the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan, signed in 2015. The agreement also makes provision for a Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and a Compensation and Reparation Authority. In the face of continued violence in South Sudan, how can the African Union assist in enabling an effective transitional justice strategy for the country? 

About the authors

Amanda Lucey is a senior research consultant in the Peace Operations and Peacebuilding Division of the ISS. With 10 years of peacebuilding experience, she has worked for the UN in the DRC and in South Sudan. She holds an MPhil in Justice and Transformation from the University of Cape Town. 

Liezelle Kumalo is a researcher in the Peace Operations and Peacebuilding Division of the ISS. Her work experience includes gender, peace and security, and peacebuilding. She has an MA in International Relations from the University of the Witwatersrand. 

Picture: UNMISS