The Commission for Victims and Survivors has provided written evidence to the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee's inquiry into reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

Drawing on its statutory remit and ongoing engagement, research and policy work, the Commission's submission outlines what it believes is necessary to foster meaningful reconciliation.

It notes that reconciliation can mean different things to different people, and that there is no single path towards it. For many victims and survivors, reconciliation should not be presumed or imposed. Any debate must recognise the varied experiences of those affected by the Troubles/conflict and the lasting impact on individuals, families and communities. The evidence underscores the importance of truth, acknowledgement and information recovery, and argues that the perspectives of victims and survivors must remain central to shaping future decisions. It recognises the role that oral history, memorialisation and storytelling can play in building understanding, while stressing these should complement rather than substitute for the broader work required to address legacy issues.

The Commission reiterates its longstanding call for greater acknowledgement of those bereaved as a result of the Troubles/conflict, including the introduction of a Bereaved Payment Scheme as a key step in recognising the enduring impact on families.

As the independent statutory body representing victims and survivors, the Commission says it will continue to exercise its functions by providing evidence-based advice to government, reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of laws, policies and services, and ensuring that victims' experiences and priorities inform future decision-making.

Welcoming the opportunity to contribute to the inquiry, the Commission looks forward to supporting further discussion on reconciliation that reflects the needs and voices of victims and survivors. The full written evidence is available via the Commission's website.