South Africa: The Religious Foundations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Abstract

This case study explores the religious underpinnings of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a governmental body established to facilitate the peaceful transition from the apartheid government to a truly democratic society by exposing human rights violations and administering both justice and forgiveness. The case study looks at the commission and its cultural bases through three questions: What are the historical origins of apartheid in South Africa? How did religious themes inform the truth and reconciliation process? How important were international religious and political forces? Additionally, the case study also includes a timeline of key events, a summary of relevant religious, political, and nongovernmental organizations, and a list of recommended further readings.