This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
The field of transitional justice, which came to prominence in the post-Cold War period, has become part of contemporary visions of international law, human rights, and global governance. It also expresses an aspirational set of values that align with humanitarian sentiments and liberal institutionalist political aims. Defined in different ways, transitional justice often focuses on ways of moving from conflict to peace and from authoritarian to democratic modes of governance. You will focus on some of the main mechanisms of transitional justice, such as trials, truth commissions, amnesties, reparations, local visions of justice processes, and constitutional/rule of law reform. You will engage with some of the frameworks and concerns that are central to contemporary discussions of transitional justice in relation to the field's historical development. You will think critically about some of the field’s premises and actors, the role of expert knowledge, and relationships with – and beyond – legal frameworks. You will also consider how transitional justice has become embedded within various legal discourses and (international) institutions.
Lectures/Seminars-16
Workshops- 8
Written - Reflection Paper -1,000 words- 25%
Extended Writing -Research Essay -3,000 words- 75% - This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.
Reassessment methods:Like-for-like
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Comprehensively explain the main concepts, principles of, and policy considerations surrounding transitional justice and transitional justice institutions and the interrelationships between transitional justice institutions and the international legal order;
2. Critique current theoretical, political and doctrinal debates in transitional justice;
3. Critically analyse the social and political contexts in which transitional justice mechanisms operate;
4. Formulate advanced written arguments concerning areas of controversy and present a reasoned and critical opinion;
5. Systematically undertake independent research into specific issues of transitional justice.
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