The judges of the Trial Chamber decided on 2 July that Thomas Lubanga should be released because the proceedings are suspended. According to the judges a fair trial is impossible because the prosecutor cannot assure complete disclosure of potentially exculpatory materials as they are covered by confidentiality agreements. Therefore the trial of Thomas Lubanga did not start on 23 June 2008 as previously scheduled.

The prosecutor appealed the decision to suspend the proceedings and the decision to release Lubanga who is charged with war crimes. He allegedly is involved in enlisting and conscripting children under the age of fifteen and using them to participate actively in hostilities.

Driven by questions on reconciliation from the field, CJR started its applied research on reconciliation with a desk study of literature on the subject from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Preliminary results of the applied research were used in workshops in Sudan, Uganda and the DRC. With encouraging results, as it proved its applicability and usefulness.

In researching reconciliation theories, CJR has developed a framework for practitioners. The report was launched on 7 December.

 Prof. Jack Snyder advocates ‘golden parachutes’ by granting amnesty for perpetrators who hold powerful positions. CJR has a differtent view on this matter.