Public perception of transitional justice in Angola: examining CIVICOP's Outreach efforts and its perceived legitimacy

This article examines the outreach and perceived legitimacy of Angola's national reconciliation commission, CIVICOP, established in 2019 to address the legacy of mass human rights violations due to political violence during the civil war (1975–2002). Using a mixed-methods approach, including a population-based survey in two provincial capitals and qualitative data from interviews and focus groups in both urban and rural settings, the study explores how the commission is perceived by the public it aims to serve. The findings reveal strikingly low levels of public awareness and engagement, with those familiar with CIVICOP expressing scepticism regarding its independence and relevance. These perceptions are shaped by broader patterns of distrust in state institutions and constrained civic space within Angola's authoritarian political system. The study highlights the limitations of state-led transitional justice efforts in contexts where outreach is top-down, civil society is marginalised, and opportunities for public participation are minimal.