Negotiating transitional justice : theory and practice /

This book takes a unique approach in that it is divided into two distinct components, each written primarily by one of the two authors. The first part (by Freeman, Institute for Integrated Transitions, Spain) is a comprehensive overview of the issues surrounding negotiating justice in the context of a peace process. Freeman provides an excellent framework for understanding the topic, so this section will be particularly useful for undergraduates. The second part (by Orozco, Universidad de los Andes, Colombia) includes essays on the recently concluded Colombian peace process, in which both authors were involved as independent advisors. The book focuses on issues of justice but offers much more than that. It provides a window into how peace processes play out--who is at the table, how decisions are made, and what the construction of an agreement looks like. Most important, it illuminates the political tensions inherent in coming to terms with human rights violations committed during a civil war. This accessible book will be a valuable addition to the literature on peace, conflict, human rights, international law, and Latin American politics. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty; professionals. --Andrew G. Reiter, Mount Holyoke College