Transitional Justice and Peacebuilding in Sierra Leone: Legal Frameworks and Implementation Challenges

Transitional justice mechanisms have been employed in Sierra Leone as a means to address past human rights abuses and promote peacebuilding. A qualitative approach was adopted using secondary data sources including legislative documents, international reports, and expert interviews to evaluate the current state of transitional justice in Sierra Leone. The legal framework includes specific provisions on reparations, criminal accountability, and truth-telling. However, implementation remains limited due to resource constraints and political instability. While significant strides have been made, ongoing challenges necessitate a more robust institutional support system to ensure the effective application of transitional justice mechanisms in Sierra Leone. Enhanced governmental funding for transitional justice programmes, strengthened national institutions responsible for implementing these measures, and improved coordination between local communities and government agencies are recommended.