Introduction pathways to reconciliation: Bringing diverse voices into conversation

Discussions of reconciliation often emphasize overcoming conflict, especially through legal, political or diplomatic means. This is partly a result of the work of ‘truth and reconciliation’ commissions in nearly two-dozen countries, especially South Africa, and the establishment of a high profile international legal structure to deal with allegations of human rights abuse. However, reconciliation encompasses a broader field than conflict resolution alone, extending to the establishment of peace, justice, fairness, healing and forgiveness. It refers to the recovery of cultural identities, building trust and overcoming personal enmities. It includes understanding and responding to relationships within and between communities, the role of cultural, religious and other factors in promoting or obstructing dialogues, and the sensitivity of such dialogues to local variables. It covers a range of social, cultural and legal goals, including human rights, social justice and mutual coexistence.