How do we talk about truth in South Africa?
Destrooper, Tine, host. “How do we talk about truth in South Africa?” Justice Visions (podcast).2021. https://justicevisions.org/podcast/how-do-we-talk-about-truth-in-south-africa/.
In this podcast episode, Tine Destrooper discusses truth and truth-seeking in the context of transitional justice. She interviews Antjie Krog, a South African journalist and poet, about her experiences covering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in South Africa. The conversation begins with Krog’s personal involvement in covering the TRC hearings. She describes the commission’s impact on both victims and journalists, emphasising the trauma felt by everyone involved. Literature emerges as a major theme, with Krog discussing how she used poetry and fiction to convey the complexities of the TRC experience. She discusses her book, “Country of My Skull,” which combines factual and fictional elements to provide a more nuanced understanding of the truth. Krog contends that literature allows for a more in-depth exploration of trauma and truth, overcoming the limitations of traditional journalism.
Krog also emphasises the importance of acknowledging multiple perspectives, even if they differ from factual accuracy, because each person’s truth is valid based on their own experiences. In assessing the TRC’s success, Krog acknowledges its flaws while affirming its importance in South Africa’s transition to democracy. She specifically critically examines the relationship between truth and reconciliation, challenging the idea that truth always leads to reconciliation. Krog articulates her reservations about the efficacy of truth commissions in general, warning that they have the potential to become meaningless symbolic gestures devoid of substantive justice. In summary, this podcast questions the efficacy of truth commissions and emphasises the need for more comprehensive approaches to addressing historical injustices. Furthermore, the role of literature and other media in conveying truths that go beyond simple facts is also a major theme, highlighting the value of storytelling and artistic expression in fostering understanding, empathy and peace.