Accounting for Atrocities in Indonesia

Abstract:     
The purpose of this study is to examine some of the ongoing epic struggles for accountability in Indonesia. This is done by reference to the law and the legal process and reaching from the present back into the Indonesia of the past. This exercise has the effect of highlighting some of the immense challenges faced in developing and implementing coherent strategies for dealing with violent historical legacies in order to create better lives for Indonesians of the future. The author reaches the inevitable conclusion that the flurry of “transitional justice” activity has had little impact on changing society and taking Indonesia towards rule of law and democracy. Without genuine public support and major strategic reform of institutions such as the military, the police, the judiciary and the Attorney General’s Office, any effort at justice and accountability will not be more than window-dressing nor will it make Indonesia a better and safer place.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 33

Accepted Paper Series