Truth and Justice Commission
| Truth and Justice Commission | |
|---|---|
| Active | 2009 - 2011 |
| Established | 1 February 2009 |
| Report Released | 25 November 2011 |
| Country | Mauritius |
| Cost | 60 Million |
| Chairman | Alexander Boraine |
| Vice-Chairman | Vijayalakshmi Teelock |
| Commissioners | Jacques David, Rephael Benjamin Moutou, Parmaseeven Verrapen |
| Number of Staff | 101 |
| Type of Justice | Restorative |
| Purpose | Investigate the effect of slavery and indentured labour in Mauritius. |
The Truth and Justice Commission of Mauritius was an independent truth commission established in 2009, which explored the impact of slavery and indentured servitude in Mauritius. The Commission was tasked to investigate the dispossession of land, and “determine appropriate measures to be extended to descendants of slaves and indentured laborers.” It was “unique in that it [dealt] with socio-economic class abuses" and explored the possibility of reparations. The inclusion of reparations, whether for individuals or communities, was a controversial decision within the country which aimed to correct inequality. The Commission attempted to cover more than 370 years, the longest period of time that a truth commission has ever covered.
The Commission consisted of five members who were appointed by the then President Sir Anerood Jugnauth. The President selected Alex Boraine, the former deputy chair of the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and four Mauritians to oversea the research and publication of a document consisting of 7 Volumes, and detailing over 3 centuries of Mauritian history.
The Truth and Justice Commission documented the "economics of colonialism, slavery, and indentured servitude, the experiences of indentured Africans, Indians, and French engagés, and living and working conditions on sugar estates." In order to aid Mauritians in reconciling the past the commission recommended: "1) memorializing slavery; 2) a better understanding and more inclusive account of Mauritian history and culture; 3) a better and increased protections of Mauritian heritage; 4) a less racist and elitist society; 5) a more democratic public life, and; 6) empowerment of Mauritians of African and Malagasy origin, as well as other recommendations to increase economic and social justice, particularly related to land issues and equitable and judicious use of the environment." Many of these recommendations have yet to be acted upon.
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