International models of truth commissions

International models of truth commissions are formal bodies established to uncover and acknowledge past human rights violations, often during conflicts or authoritarian regimes. These commissions aim to promote reconciliation, justice, and healing by investigating abuses, documenting victims’ stories, and offering recommendations. They vary in structure and approach—some are temporary inquiries, while others involve broader societal participation. Examples include South Africa’s TRC after apartheid and Guatemala’s Commission for Historical Clarification. These models serve as tools to foster accountability, transparency, and national healing by addressing past injustices openly and systematically.