Identity and participation of exiled Colombian victims in transitional justice processes

• In Event: Victimhood in Transitional Justice (ECACTJ Working Group)

Abstract

The Colombian armed conflict has led to the forced exile of many victims, significantly shaping their identities and access to justice. This study explores the experiences of both direct and indirect exiled victims residing in Catalonia through the conduction of several focus groups and in-depth interviews, examining how displacement has influenced their self-perception as victims or survivors and the barriers they face in seeking recognition and participation in Colombian transitional justice mechanisms. Specifically, it assesses their engagement with judicial processes under the Justice and Peace Law and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace. Grounded in the theoretical framework of restorative transitional justice, this research identifies key obstacles to inclusion and proposes concrete measures to address victims’ demands and needs for recognition, justice, and reparation, ultimately seeking to enhance their participation in Colombia’s peacebuilding efforts.

Authors

• Alba Marsol, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya

• Silvana Avendaño, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (Open University of Catalonia)

• Pablo Romero-Seseña, Universitat de Barcelona

• Josep Tamarit, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya