Victims of Political Violence

Abstract

At the heart of all efforts to bring about justice in post-conflict societies is the question of how to deal with victims. The resolution of this issue is often considered the litmus test of a successful peace endeavour and political transition of societies emerging from conflict. Irrespective of whether restorative or retributive forms of justice are considered, the recognition of the needs and rights of victims and the ability to deal effectively with their concerns is considered primary to the political, economic and social stability of a post-conflict nation. However, who qualifies as a victim is both contested and divisive. In fact, possibly more so than any other factor, the nature and extent of victimhood has become one of the most contentious issues to emerge in post-settlement societies. A key focus of this panel will be to investigate the nature and extent of victimhood in post-conflict societies as well as its consequences for a range of socio-political attitudes. Papers from a range of theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches are welcome.

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