When is reconciliation possible? How can it be achieved and by what means? The conference examined the dilemma of balancing the search for truth about past horrors and the striving for justice, with the need to look forward towards a future in which past events are no longer allowed to define the conditions of existence of a nation’s citizens. The Forum discussed whether it is possible for former enemies to find common ground, a modus vivendi, and live together in the same society after horrific bloodshed or a bitter, long-standing conflict, and what approaches might be most successful in achieving a state of peaceful coexistence.

A number seminars examined experiences from individual countries. Various conflicts were described: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Germany and Poland, Rwanda and South Africa. Although the Forum itself imposed no restrictions on what could or could not be discussed, as far as possible participants avoided debating unresolved contemporary conflicts. They attempted instead to discuss the issues in terms of possible solutions and strategies for moving forward.

Delegations from 40 countries attended this Forum. Several countries were represented by their Heads of State, and many more by Cabinet Ministers. Representatives from a number of international organisations (notably the United Nations and the European Union) also attended, as did a host of international experts. The keynote speakers included Xanana Gusmão, who was then the new President-elect of East Timor.

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