This research paper, prepared by Mwatana for Human Rights in cooperation with Central European University, examines three recent experiences with transitional justice:

• The case of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• The case of Colombia.
• The case of the Philippines.

These three diverse experiences highlight the pivotal role of societal context and its specificities in shaping transitional justice processes and their associated arrangements.

This paper is part of a broader series of products and methodological approaches—including studies, research papers, and reports—that explore transitional justice, its elements, requirements, and mechanisms through research and analysis. By examining a wide range of global experiences, the aim is to provide a foundational knowledge base to identify applicable mechanisms, best practices, and potential challenges. The ultimate objective is to deepen understanding of transitional justice, raise awareness of its importance, and provide inputs that can inform and guide efforts toward transitional justice in Yemen at every stage.

The paper focuses on mechanisms for engaging independent civil society organizations and victims by analyzing three case studies of transitional justice processes in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, and the Philippines. These countries underwent transitional justice efforts in the aftermath of protracted conflicts that produced widespread human rights violations and a legacy of accumulated grievances, among other consequences. Relevant documents, including reports from the United Nations, the International Center for Transitional Justice, and other reliable international organizations, were also reviewed to gain a deeper understanding of the Yemeni context in relation to transitional justice.

The purpose of the paper is to present an analytical study of the three experiences, their challenges, obstacles, and best practices, in a way that helps identify the essential elements that should be present from the earliest stages of designing transitional justice programs in Yemen. Such insights can enhance the prospects of success and help avoid common pitfalls observed in comparable experiences.

In addition to the introduction and recommendations, the paper is structured into three main chapters, each dedicated to one of the transitional justice experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, and the Philippines. Each chapter covers multiple dimensions, with a particular focus on the participation of civil society and victims, as well as the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges in each case. Each chapter concludes with an analysis comparing the specific context of the case study to Yemen’s context, highlighting ways in which these lessons can be adapted and applied, particularly regarding the roles of civil society and victims.

The paper concludes with a set of recommendations drawn from the best practices identified in the transitional justice processes applied by the three experiences. These recommendations are intended to assist relevant stakeholders in Yemen in initiating or planning for a transitional justice process.