Reconciliation in South Africa: Addressing Apartheid Era Human Rights Violations

If the promotion of human rights as well as the establishment of democratic institutions an governments continue to be important U.S. goals, the Truth and Reconciliation process in South Africa deserves support, scrutiny, and continuous evaluation. Successful discussions between the United States and South Africa are indirectly tied to the success of the reconciliation process. Stability and growth could stimulate foreign investment and open markets in South Africa. The aim of the Truth and Reconciliation process was to develop a culture that places a high value on human rights to prevent recurrences of the injustices and suffering of the past. To succeed, social healing will require significant sacrifices and perseverance by former oppressors, perpetrators, and victims alike.