Australia will contribute funds for Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), emphasizing the commission’s role in promoting national unity. The TRC Act 2024 outlines preparatory tasks, with $200,000 allocated in the national budget. Attorney-General Graham Leung expressed support for the TRC and its objectives during a recent meeting with chair Dr. Marcus Brand.
The Australian government will partially fund the operationalization of Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), as confirmed by the Australian High Commission. The commission is recognized by Australia as essential for promoting national unity and reconciliation in Fiji. Efforts are underway to finalize funding arrangements to support the TRC’s initiatives.
The TRC Act 2024 mandates a three-month preparatory phase for the commission, which includes essential activities such as securing office space, preparing a budget, and obtaining necessary operational funds. Although the total funding amount remains unspecified, the TRC secretariat has been allocated $200,000 in the 2024/2025 National Budget to facilitate its preparatory tasks.
Recently, TRC chair Dr. Marcus Brand met with Attorney-General Graham Leung, who acknowledged the importance of the TRC in promoting national unity and healing. Mr. Leung expressed the government’s support for the commission’s work and encouraged an environment of open dialogue and transparency throughout its operations. Dr. Brand’s appointment was well-received, highlighting the government’s commitment to the TRC’s objectives.
The funding for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is a crucial step towards enabling Fiji to address historical grievances and promote healing within the nation. The commission’s operationalization is aimed at fostering dialogue among various societal groups in Fiji, as well as laying the groundwork for reconciling past injustices.
Australia’s financial contribution highlights its recognition of the TRC’s significance for national unity in Fiji. The combination of the scheduled preparatory tasks and budget allocation indicates a structured approach to ensuring the commission operates effectively. The support from the Fiji government strengthens the framework for transparent and constructive dialogue, essential for the TRC’s success.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
