The Essential Role of the Informal Mechanism in Restorative Justice Related to the 1965-1966 Incident in Palu-Indonesia

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Abstract

The mechanism of transitional justice is categorized into formal and informal mechanisms. Formal mechanisms are generally understood as mechanisms implemented by state institutions or international bodies, usually using procedural justice and accountability standards. In contrast, informal mechanisms are not required to meet these standards and are carried out by a non-government or non-international body. In many transition countries, the informal mechanism is often only used as a complementary (not a primary) mechanism to the formal one. This study discusses the role of the informal mechanism initiated by the solidarity of victims of human rights violations (non-government organization) of Central Sulawesi, which succeeded in realizing restorative justice related to the 1965-1966 events in Palu. This research uses a qualitative case study method. This study found that informal mechanisms can play a primary role (not just complementary to formal mechanisms) in realizing restorative justice through truth-seeking, grassroots reconciliation, apology, forgiveness, and victim reparations.