What is reconciliation in the South African context? - In 2021, there were 16 different understandings of the concept. At the top of the list is the understanding of reconciliation as forgiveness. This is understandable but problematic.
of 2017 showed 88% of South Africans say that religion is important to their lives. We are a country with deep spiritual roots and it is thus not surprising that reconciliation is linked to forgiveness. Christianity is the largest religion and, following that tradition, forgiveness of others is seen as an important precondition to forgiveness of self .with the truth and reconciliation process.
This can be seen in the findings of the 2021 reconciliation barometer where 9% of respondents said that only those who were oppressed by apartheid are responsible for reconciliation, and 23% said that mostly those who were oppressed are responsible. This means that about a third of South Africans believe that the onus is on the victims to forgive in order for there to be reconciliation.
Looking at countries in transition, it is evident that where countries have not dealt with the past, lasting sustainable peace is elusive. One of the key elements of reconciliation needs to be truth-telling and the full exposure of the extent of the abuses which have taken place. Memorialisation and recognition are important aspects of acknowledging what has happened and allowing people to process the atrocities.
In looking at the way in which South Africans view reconciliation, it is important to note that many of the elements of transitional justice are mentioned. Peace, making amends, respect, improving relationships, truth, justice, democracy, addressing racism, retribution, dialogue and memorialisation are all mentioned in the 2021 barometer.
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