The experience of the International Tribunal for the Application of Restorative Justice in El Salvador (2009-2015): reflections after a singular path towards the establishment of public policies of restoration and national reconciliation

Abstract

Drawing on his experience as a member of the Tribunal of El Salvador, now in its seventh session, the author argues that Salvadoran victims of serious human rights violations and crimes against humanity are asking us for closeness, for a connection to their lives, for social recognition, truth, justice, and reparations. This demand requires us to foster spaces for shared encounter where we can discuss ethical dilemmas and moral anguish, as well as places where the pain of those who continue to suffer can be expressed and felt. For this reason, the Tribunal emerges as an initiative from civil society, specifically from Idhuca and the Network of Salvadoran Victims’ Committees, and thus derives its legitimacy from the victims’ own demands and the need to complement the work of the Truth Commission—a demand that arises within a context of absolute impunity and the complete ineffectiveness of the administration of justice.