A gender analysis of the transitional justice framework in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Literature has been increasingly exploring the field of transitional justice, and the significance of transitional justice mechanisms in post-conflict contexts. However, most of the literature neglects the gendered experiences of armed conflict which has resulted in the exclusion of gender sensitivity in the creation and implementation of transitional justice mechanisms. This study examines the potential of transitional justice mechanisms in delivering justice for women in post-conflict contexts, using Zimbabwean women ex-combatants as a case study. It examines how the transitional justice framework in Zimbabwe has helped or hindered advances in gender justice for women ex-combatants. Using a qualitative research approach, the study was conducted through one-on-one interviews and the use of secondary sources such as archives, journal articles and books with the objective of understanding the experiences of women ex-combatants in the transitional context in a manner that identifies the contextual factors affecting the advancement of gender justice through the transitional justice framework in Zimbabwe. The study will help engage in a discussion on how to improve transitional justice mechanisms in a gender sensitive manner that will allow women to define justice in their own context.