Navigating Local Transitional Justice: Agency at Work in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone

In post-war Sierra Leone, Laura S. Martin's book explores how individual and communal dynamics shape and are shaped by transitional justice programs, highlighting the crucial role of agency and the diverse range of actors involved.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In the aftermath of the war in Sierra Leone, a multitude of transitional justice mechanisms were put in place to address the profound experiences of conflict, violence, and human rights violations. While much of the research on local transitional justice processes has centered on the contributions of organizations, it has overlooked the intricate interplay between individual and communal dynamics that shape and are shaped by these programs. To bridge this gap, Laura S. Martin delves into original fieldwork in Sierra Leone, exploring how individuals navigate their circumstances in conflict and post-conflict societies. Through her innovative approach, Martin develops the concept of recognized and unrecognized transitional justice processes, using Fambul Tok as a notable example of a recognized local transitional justice program. By examining how ordinary Sierra Leoneans appropriated Fambul Tok's agenda for their own purposes, Martin demonstrates the significant role of agency and the diverse array of actors involved in transitional justice processes.

In her book, Martin makes a compelling argument that justice is not something that happens to or for people but is actively enacted by individuals and communities. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the agency of those who have been marginalized and oppressed, and of empowering them to participate in the processes of justice and reconciliation. Martin's work sheds light on the complexities and nuances of transitional justice, challenging traditional narratives that often overlook the voices and experiences of ordinary people.

Through her detailed analysis and compelling storytelling, Martin provides a valuable contribution to the field of transitional justice. Her book offers insights into the ways in which individuals and communities can rebuild and heal after enduring the traumas of conflict, and it highlights the crucial role of agency and the diverse range of actors involved in transitional justice processes. Justice, as Martin powerfully argues, is not a one-size-fits-all solution but is a dynamic and multifaceted process that requires a collective effort to achieve.

In conclusion, Laura S. Martin's book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of transitional justice and the role of individuals and communities in achieving justice and reconciliation. Her innovative approach and compelling storytelling shed light on the ways in which ordinary people can shape and be shaped by transitional justice programs, and they offer valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009281010