Part VII Assessments, Ch.38 What Outcomes for Victims?

Subject(s):

Crimes against humanity — National implementation — Wrongful acts — Reparations — Restitution — Compensation — Reparation — Access to justice

This article examines the redress processes for victims of human rights violations. It explores the outcomes of human rights law from the point of view of victims of human rights violations and evaluates what outcome may be satisfactory for victims. The analysis reveals that while efforts to redress human rights violations have produced a considerable volume of legal instruments, reports, recommendations and programs, what victims have actually received at the end of the day is less impressive. This article highlights the fact that many victims of human rights violations are not able to access any avenue of redress. It also stressed the need for procedural justice and victim-centred approaches in the reparations processes.