Can historians be peacemakers? Recent experiences with truth and reconciliation processes in Southeast Asia and the Southwest Pacific suggest that they can be. There is a role for historical research and memory in helping to build sustainable peace and stability in new nations. On the other hand, ignoring violent pasts undermines peacebuilding efforts. In the… More Truth & reconciliation in Southeast Asia & the Melanesian Pacific: a project summary
Timor-Leste’s independence came during a “window of opportunity” after the fall of the longtime Indonesian dictator Suharto in May 1998. Between then and early 1999, the Timor-Leste resistance was able to break through and win the support for some key countries for self-determination. That helped make the referendum in August 1999 possible, and also helped… More A 1999 story: How Timor-Leste’s resistance gained Canada’s support, and why that matters
How can survivors of mass violence rebuild their lives? It’s a question that Timor-Leste’s centre for truth and reconciliation has asked, and one that survivors have answered. Initiatives are taking shape across the island, now two decades out from its independence from Indonesian military occupation. “Houses of memory to hope” provide homes for survivors who… More Repairing justice in Timor-Leste