ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on records as evidence of massive human rights violations, in particular crimes against humanity. It shows how the interaction between these different elements – truth, justice, fight against impunity, peace, reconciliation – has played out in various societies and cultures and in specific historical contexts. The book provides a wide spectrum of questions and discussions, in particular relating to the use of archives in different contexts. It proves useful and inspiring for students and scholars of social and human sciences, individuals and associations involved in truth and reconciliation processes and the interested general public. The book presents briefly the historical, political, social and cultural contexts of their case. It provides descriptions and uses of archives in national judicial processes, for Truth and Reconciliation Commissions and for transitional justice in general.
