Sierra Leone: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission: A Fresh Start?

Sierra Leone's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) must start serious work if it is to avoid losing the confidence of civil society and international donors.  There are still considerable problems with management issues, funding and, in particular, the performance of the commissioners and its partner, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Statement takers have been sent out this month to begin collecting stories from all citizens who wish to come forward, but this is just a first step. Civil society also must be brought back into the process to assist with education, to act as a watchdog and to encourage popular participation in the TRC, says the International Crisis Group.