Confronting the shadows: transitional justice and the Armenian genocide in Turkey

This chapter examines the Armenian Genocide through the framework of transitional justice, with a particular focus on truth recovery mechanisms. Despite substantial historical evidence, the Republic of Turkey has persistently denied the Genocide, engaging in state-sponsored efforts to minimise and rationalise the atrocities. This denial has hindered reconciliation and reflects complex historical and political dynamics. Addressing the Armenian Genocide through transitional justice mechanisms, such as truth commissions, historical commissions, and parliamentary commissions, is crucial for confronting these historical injustices. However, given the strong denialism and authoritarian regime in Turkey, comprehensive reconciliation efforts face significant challenges. Persistent civil society mobilisation, grassroots activism, and international pressure are essential to advance these efforts. Engaging a wide range of actors, including civil society, scholars, and political parties, is vital for the legitimacy and effectiveness of transitional justice mechanisms.