Democracy and Due Process: Reflections on the Work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

• Autor: Lerner Febres, Salomón
• Formato: artículo
• Fecha de Publicación: 2004
• Institución: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
• Repositorio: Revistas - Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
• Lenguaje: español
• OAI Identifier: oai:ojs.pkp.sfu.ca:article/10326
• Enlace del recurso: http://revistas.pucp.edu.pe/index.php/derechopucp/article/view/10326
• Nivel de acceso: acceso abierto
• Materia: Truth and Reconciliation Commission; Democracy; Due Process; Human Rights; Terrorism; Justice; Comisión de la Verdad y Reconciliación; Democracia; Debido Proceso; Derechos Humanos; Terrorismo; Justicia

This paper addresses the complex relationship between democracy, justice, and due process in the context of the fight against terrorism and subversion that kept Peru in a climate of anxiety during the 1980s and 1990s. It highlights the need to critically analyze whether the laws and judicial practices employed during that period were truly fair and respectful of the rule of law. The author therefore stresses the importance of defending democracy from those who seek to undermine it. However, it is crucial that such protection be carried out with respect for legal principles, the life and integrity of individuals. Consequently, judicial methods must be used that seek the truth and do not violate human rights. In short, it is proposed that the defense of democracy must be carried out within a legal framework that respects democratic principles and human rights, particularly in conflict situations.