My Conclusion and Opinion
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was successful in exposing the horrors of South Africa’s apartheid past. It allowed the prosecuted to expose the truth with no threat of exploitation, allowing for a broader spectrum of what influenced the actions of criminals in apartheid. It gave the families of victims a sense of closure and healing when hearing the confession of the tried, which allowed not only the moving on as individuals but helped the transition from dictatorship to democracy, and society as a whole. Finally, the TRC granted amnesty with a unbiased opinion based on the criteria of the commission, unlike criminal-trials. With freedom to say the truth without fear of it being used against themselves in court, candidates would express the whole story of their crimes, and show forgiveness for their violations. Plus, with the TRC’s strict and rigorous standards to be met in order to be granted amnesty, a simple and effective way was built for the process of dealing with the crimes of apartheid. Not only that, but as a whole, the Truth and Reconciliation had many democratizing effects on South Africa. It signified a national break from dictatorship to a government built on personal and political freedoms, and the building of a regime taking place for the destruction of another. Yes, The TRC could not provide healing for it’s victims and set up a new democratic government at the same time, but it’s Commission's made viable recommendations for political, judicial, and educational reforms that can be used in the rebuilding of South Africa as a free, independent nation. The Truth and Reconciliation played a key role in the healing of all of Africa and it’s society, and without it, the success of South Africa’s resurrection would not have been even close to what it is today.