Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
A group of local human rights organizations, in collaboration with international partners, has released a field study titled “The Road to Peace,” shedding light on local community views regarding transitional justice and ways to implement it.
The study, prepared by SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties and the Association of Abductees’ Mothers, with support from the DT Institute, indicated that Yemen has been suffering from grave human rights violations against civilians for nearly a decade. The report emphasized the importance of making transitional justice — which includes principles of fairness and accountability — a core component of any future political process or peace agreement.
The study employed a qualitative methodology, including 122 interviews and 20 focus group discussions across six governorates, where data was collected and analyzed to ensure its accuracy. Findings revealed that 79% of victims reported experiencing direct violations, including arbitrary detention and torture, with clear impacts on women and vulnerable groups.
In terms of transitional justice pathways, participants recommended the establishment of mechanisms for victim compensation, government reforms, and support for reconciliation initiatives. They also stressed the importance of truth-telling and strengthening international monitoring, despite facing significant challenges such as the absence of a specialized national body and a lack of financial resources.
The study also addressed the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the roots of the crisis, with participants considering the end of the conflict and the establishment of a strong state as the foundation for achieving justice. They highlighted the necessity of involving marginalized groups in transitional justice processes and providing them with legal and financial support.
Attention was drawn to the divide between those calling for reconciliation and those demanding accountability, reflecting the need for a flexible model that balances both sides. The study also outlined the obstacles victims face in seeking justice, such as fear of retaliation and a lack of legal guarantees.
The study stressed the vital role of civil society in supporting transitional justice and called for seizing available opportunities to advance progress in this field.
It recommended incorporating transitional justice principles into any future peace agreement and establishing a specialized national court to ensure accountability for those responsible.
