Waiting for justice

On September 28, 2009, Guinea's security forces fired on tens of thousands of opposition supporters peacefully gathered in the capital, Conakry. At least 150 Guineans were killed and dozens were raped. Investigations by Human Rights Watch and a United Nations International Commission of Inquiry suggested that the abuses rise to the level of crimes against humanity. Based on research in Conakry in June 2012 and follow-up interviews, this report analyzes Guinea's efforts to hold perpetrators of the September 28, 2009 crimes to account. Impunity can carry high costs, including by potentially fueling new abuses. Guinean officials express support for justice, but have taken too few steps to translate rhetoric into action. A panel of investigative judges has made important strides, but its work has been stymied by lack of government support. Three years after the crimes were committed, pre-trial investigation has yet to conclude. The Guinean government should meet key benchmarks to ensure the panel of judges can operate, including providing adequate resources and security, and placing key suspects on leave from government posts. Prosecutors should ensure the judges can access potential mass graves, and the judges should swiftly address illegal pre-trial detention of suspects. This is a potentially important test case for the international community to ensure domestic accountability, including promoting the International Criminal Court's complementarity principle. Key actors -- including the European Union, United States, and United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights -- should intensify pressure on the Guinean government to ensure justice is served.