RESEARCH STUDY ON DEVELOPMENT OF A YOUTH-FRIENDLY VERSION OF
THE AFRICAN UNION TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE POLICY (AUTJP)
Information Letter & Informed Consent Form
Title of the Study
Development of a Youth-Friendly Version of the African Union Transitional Justice Policy (AUTJP)
Research Conducted by:
Youth Organisation for Research & Justice Advocacy (YORJA) and Impunity Watch
Purpose of the Study
This research aims to assess how the African Union Transitional Justice Policy (AUTJP) can be made more youth-friendly, accessible, and engaging for young people across Africa. The study will evaluate the current structure, language, and outreach of the policy, identifying ways to make it more inclusive, understandable, and actionable for young people involved in peacebuilding, advocacy, and transitional justice.
Why This Research?
Despite the importance of the AUTJP in shaping post-conflict justice across Africa, many young people find it complex, difficult to navigate, and inaccessible. YORJA seeks to bridge this gap by:
- Understanding youth perspectives on barriers to engaging with the AUTJP.
- Identifying ways to simplify the language and format for better youth inclusion.
- Exploring how young people can meaningfully contribute to transitional justice using the AUTJP.
- Recommending innovative outreach strategies, including digital tools, storytelling, and youth-led advocacy.
What Will Happen If You Participate?
If you choose to take part, you may engage in some or all of the following:
- Interviews (lasting 45-55 minutes) in person or via a secure online platform.
- Focus group discussions (1 hour and 40 minutes) with other youth leaders, activists, and stakeholders.
- An online survery (10 minutes) to provide insights on youth engagement with transitional justice.
- Peer review workshops to validate the draft resource.
Discussions may be recorded (with consent) to ensure accuracy, and notes will be taken. No personally identifiable information will be included in transcripts or reports.
Confidentiality & Ethics
- Participation is voluntary and confidential.
- No identifying details will be included in reports.
- Responses will be used only for research purposes.
Voluntary Participation & Right to Withdraw
Your participation is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw from the study or decline to answer any questions without any consequences.
Potential Risks & Benefits
- Risks: We anticipate minimal risks, but discussing transitional justice challenges may evoke strong emotions. Support resources will be available if needed.
- Benefits: While there are no direct financial benefits, your contributions will shape an AUTJP that is more relevant, accessible, and useful for young people across Africa.
How Will Your Data Be Used?
- No personal data will be stored or shared outside the research team.
- Findings will be used to develop a youth-friendly version of the AUTJP.
- Recommendations will be shared with the African Union, policymakers, and youth networks.
How Will I Find Out About the Results?
Participants will receive updates on key findings, and final recommendations will be shared through reports, policy briefs, and advocacy materials.
What If I Have a Concern or Complaint?
For ethical concerns, you may contact YORJA’s ethics desk at info@yorja.org
Contact Information
For questions or participation, please contact patienceoben@yorja.org or read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.
Consent Statement: By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the information provided above, and you agree to participate in this study. You understand that you can withdraw at any time without any repercussions.