Abstract

Mark Freeman's book Truth Commissions and Procedural Fairness provides a consolidated account of the procedural functioning of truth commissions. It appears at a crucial point in academic discussions around transitional justice. The book aspires to synthesize and document the lessons learnt from past experiences and in doing so makes a significant contribution to the area. The author does not, however, engage in a critical analysis of the use and role that truth commission play in societies in transition, failing to address how these procedures interact with broader legal systems. The recommendations, although useful, are taken outside of any country context, losing some of the nuance that makes truth commissions such remarkable yet often flawed responses to large-scale or prolonged human rights abuse.

Recommended Citation

Palmer, Nicola (2008) "Book Review: Freeman, Truth Commissions and Procedural Fairness," International Commentary on Evidence: Vol. 6 : Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/ice/vol6/iss1/art6