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From Neo-Colonialism to a ‘Light-Footprint Approach’: Restoring Justice Systems

2008; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 15; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1080/13533310802041493

1743-906X

Matteo Tondini,

Human Rights and Development

Abstract The article analyses peacebuilding theories and methods, as applied to justice system reform in post-conflict scenarios. In this respect, the international authorities involved in the reconstruction process may traditionally choose between either a dirigiste or a consent-based approach, representing the essential terms of reference of past interventions. However, features common to most reconstruction missions, and relatively poor results, confirm the need for a change in the overall strategy. This requires international donors to focus more on the ‘demand for justice’ at local levels than on the traditional supply of financial and technical aid for reforms. The article stresses the need for effectively promoting the ‘local ownership’ of the reform process, without this expression being merely used by international actors as a political umbrella under which to protect themselves from potential failures. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT A draft version of this article was presented at the 6th Pan-European Conference on International Relations, Turin, 12–15 September 2007, and appeared on the conference's website. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the institution or the office in which the author is currently serving. Notes 1. Lakhdar Brahimi, speech at the ‘Great Negotiator’ Award Acceptance, Harvard Law School, 2 Oct. 2002, quoted in Jacob S. Kreilkamp, ‘UN Postconflict Reconstruction’, New York University Journal of International Law and Politics, Vol.35, No.3, 2003, pp.619–70, at p.665. 2. Barbara Oomen, ‘Donor-Driven Justice and Its Discontents: The Case of Rwanda’, Development and Change, Vol.36, No.5, 2005, pp.887–910, at p.894. 3. ‘The Situation in Afghanistan and Its Implications for International Peace and Security’, Report of the Secretary-General, 18 Mar. 2002, UN doc. A/56/875–S/2002/278, p.16. 4. 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