Research and Discussion Paper on a TJ Framework for Zimbabwe 8.6.The Definition of Victim The NPRC Act does not define a “victim` of past human rights violations. International and regional norms have developed in such a way that it is a binding law that a victim of gross, systematic human rights violations is not only the directly concerned individual alone, but also persons who individually or collectively suffered harm, including physical or mental injury, emotional suffering, economic loss or substantial impairment of their fundamental rights, through acts or omissions that constitute gross violations of international human rights law, or serious violations of international humanitarian law. Where appropriate, and in accordance with domestic law, the term “victim” also includes the immediate family or dependants of the direct victim and persons who have suffered harm in intervening to assist victims in distress or to prevent victimisation. The proposed measure is: 26. Amend the NPRC Act and any appropriate laws to include the above mentioned definition of victim. 8.7.Memorialization Memorialisation is a commemoration, an acknowledgment of the truth, beyond any denial, preserving history, beyond any denial, an education tool and a guarantee for non-recurrence. There is a need to adopt a comprehensive approach for memorialisation. As such there is a need in Zimbabwe for memorialisation projects: The proposed measures include: 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. Define a day of memorialisation for victims of human rights violation. Design memorialisation spaces, halls, stadium etc. without the interference of the state. Integrate memorialisation in the education curriculum. Rename public spaces after the victims or the atrocities. Revise history texts and educational curricula. Include younger generations in all memorialisation activities; they are agents for change and for the non-recurrence of violence. At the community level: 33. Allow the communities to memorialize their grievances, depending on their culture, religion, and history, openly without harassment. 34. Give city councils the constitutional power, or per a decree, to decide which mass graves can be opened so that relatives can rebury there loved once. This will lead to healing and is also part of acknowledging the truth. 8.8.Official Acknowledgement and Apology The official acknowledgment and apology from the state about atrocities its agencies have committed restores the dignity of the victim and supports reconciliation. Official acknowledgment 50 DRAFT