Snapshot presented by Fundación Ideas para la Paz (FIP)Webcast of the session:Meeting linkMeeting number: 843 764 408
Password: 627pYcpd
BackgroundThe question is still unsolved of how the UN Guiding Principles should apply in transitional justice contexts. That is, what are the practical implications for businesses regarding their duty to respect and remedy concerning the rights to truth, justice, reparation, and guarantees of non-repetition? Although historical examples are feeding into Colombia’s current transitional justice system that resulted from the Peace Accord signed in 2016, the challenges faced by transitional justice mechanisms to achieve a meaningful participation of businesses are significant.
This snapshot will provide key insights on the participation of businesses in Colombia’s Commission for the Clarification of Truth, Coexistence, and Non-Repetition (the “Commission”) based on unprecedented ground research conducted by the Fundación Ideas para la Paz – FIP. The Commission, which has a three-year term since November 2018, has the mandate to address responsibilities of non-combatants and, in turn, recognize the differentiated consequences that armed conflict has had on society, including businesses.
ObjectivesThe snapshot presentation will address practical dilemmas associated to business participation in Colombia’s Truth Commission seen from a human rights perspective. In particular, it will cover:
- Commission’s essentials: what is the challenge? - An integrative truth in the midst of voluntary participation.
- Business standpoint – questions and expectations: ¿is the victim or perpetrator dichotomy applicable? How to manage the fear towards legal and reputational risks?
- Truth as a measure of remedy for society: where to find the truth in a protracted armed conflict.
- Opportunities for moving forward: trust vs time. Current efforts by the Commission to engage with business actors.
Key background information
