The second one, the joint Truth and Friendship Commission, which we started now with Indonesia, that is the one that has been criticized; its terms of reference call for providing amnesty for those who cooperate in telling the truth. It does not lead to prosecution.

The quote by José Ramos-Horta addresses the creation of the Truth and Friendship Commission between East Timor and Indonesia. This commission was established to address past human rights violations during Indonesia's occupation of East Timor. The main purpose of the commission was to uncover the truth about what happened, but it also aimed to promote reconciliation between the two nations.

Ramos-Horta acknowledges the criticism the commission has faced, particularly regarding its terms of reference, which allowed for amnesty to be granted to those who cooperated in revealing the truth. This approach was controversial, as many felt that offering amnesty undermined the need for accountability and justice for those responsible for atrocities. Instead of prosecuting perpetrators, the focus was placed on creating a space for truth-telling and healing.

The commission’s decision to prioritize reconciliation over punishment reflects a delicate balance between achieving justice and fostering long-term peace. The origin of this initiative lies in East Timor's struggle for independence and the complex post-conflict dynamics that followed. Ramos-Horta’s quote highlights the ongoing debate about whether such compromises are necessary for peacebuilding or if they perpetuate a lack of accountability for human rights abuses.