Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR)

RECONCILIATION DAY Reconciliation Day holds profound significance for the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation. This day embodies the very essence of why we exist and what we strive for as an organisation. Reconciliation Day marks an important moment in South Africa's ongoing journey toward healing, unity, and transformation. It symbolises the nation’s unwavering commitment to fostering harmony and embracing a shared and inclusive future. This day invites us to reflect on our history, honour contributions to justice and freedom, and to celebrate the strides we have made together. The IJR’s mission is deeply intertwined with the values that Reconciliation Day represents. Established in 2000, in the wake of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we remain dedicated to building fair, inclusive, democratic and peaceful societies across Africa and beyond. Through research, dialogue, advocacy, and capacity building, we tackle inequality, dismantle the legacies of oppression, and advance transitional justice, reconciliation, social cohesion and democracy. South Africa is once again embarking on a process of national introspection through the National Dialogue. It represents an opportunity for restoring hope and for renewal of the commitments to “heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights.”   On this Reconciliation Day, let us reflect on the shared history that binds us, acknowledge the challenges that persist, and renew our commitment to inclusion, equity, and justice as well as think deeply what we would like to achieve through the National Dialogue. As Desmond Tutu reminded us: “Someday we will realise our dream of a fair, democratic, and inclusive Africa.” Together, we can continue to build the bridges that bring us closer to that dream.

Happy holidays from all of us at IJR!🎄

The IJR, with support from the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa, is inviting applications to attend a Women Peace and Security (WPS) Peace Lab. These dynamic engagements aim to strengthen the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda in the region by creating a deeper understanding of WPS, promoting leadership on WPS, and developing innovative solutions to current peace and security challenges. Read more: https://bit.ly/41rX45z

Great to visit old and new friends at Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) in Cape Town on 4th December ‘24. IJR is doing important research and practical work on post-atrocity and post-conflict situations in several African countries. #justice #peace

Meet the Speakers: Dr. Webster Zambara Peace Lecture. Hosted by ZimRights and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation. The Dr. Webster Zambara Peace Lecture is established to honor the legacy of Dr. Zambara, a visionary leader and advocate for peace whose contributions to peacebuilding, transitional justice, and conflict transformation have made a significant impact in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and across the African continent. This inaugural lecture will coincide with the launch of the Zimbabwe State of Peace Report 2023-2024, dedicated to Dr. Zambara, which emphasizes the need for accountability, reform, and sustainable peace in Zimbabwe. Register at: https://bit.ly/3Ze9lcg

A new policy brief titled “Gender-Based Violence: The Main Challenge in the Fight for Women’s Rights in South Africa” is now available! Written by #IJR’s Asafika Mpako and Stephen Ndoma, using Afrobarometer data, it highlights that GBV is the top concern for citizens regarding women’s rights. Unfortunately, both police and scholars agree that the true extent of GBV remains unknown due to underreporting of attacks on women and girls. You can download it here ➡ https://bit.ly/4i2btvo

ZimRights and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation #IJR are hosting the Dr Webster Zambara Peace Lecture on 3 Dec. Register at: https://bit.ly/3Ze9lcg Dr Zambara, a leader in #peacebuilding and #justice across Africa, greatly impacted Zimbabwe and South Africa. This inaugural lecture marks the launch of the Zimbabwe State of Peace Report 2023-2024, dedicated to him, highlighting the need for accountability and sustainable peace in Zimbabwe. Look out for more updates!

Read the new #IJR policy brief:  “Citizens’ perceptions of trust and corruption in government institutions in South Africa,” by Preston Govindasamy. You can read the full brief at: https://bit.ly/4fpcRpW   To restore and sustain public trust, the government must focus on enhancing transparency, improving public services and fostering a culture of #accountability. By addressing these issues comprehensively at both national and local levels, South Africa can work towards a more trustworthy and effective system of #governance. The following recommendations are proposed: -Strengthen anti-corruption measures -Improve government performance -Enhance whistle-blower protections

Join Us in Promoting Peace! The South African National Peace Charter is a powerful declaration aimed at fostering unity, equality, and harmony across our diverse nation. To promote a culture of peace, the South African National Action Plan on Women Peace and Security #WPS calls for a #PeaceCharter. Peace must be nurtured in the family and in our communities, for this is the foundation for peaceful societies. Let’s work together to create a future where everyone can thrive in peace! 🔗https://bit.ly/3AeYdlX #Unity #HumanRights #Peacebuildin

We are committed to supporting the long-standing mission of protecting human rights. These rights form the foundation for everyone's freedom, equality, and dignity. Upholding them is essential to building just societies where every individual's voice is respected and their potential is fully realized. Together, we can foster a society in which these values are central to progress, driving lasting transformation across national boundaries. #UnitedNations #ijr