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The “Digital Turn” in Transitional Justice Research: Evaluating Image and Text as Data in the Western Balkans

Author

Listed:
  • Kostovicova Denisa

    (European Institute, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK)

  • Kerr Rachel

    (Department of War Studies, King’s College, London, UK)

  • Sokolić Ivor

    (School of Humanities, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK)

  • Fairey Tiffany

    (Department of War Studies, King’s College, London, UK)

  • Redwood Henry

    (London South Bank University, London, UK)

  • Subotić Jelena

    (Department of Political Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA)

Abstract

The “digital turn” has transformed the landscape of transitional justice research. A wealth of data has been created through social media channels, and new digitisation tools have made existing data more easily accessible. This article discusses the ethical and methodological dimensions of using digital data and novel technologies in transitional justice research based on innovative research using digital archives, digitised transcripts, social media (Facebook) content and digital images. The authors review and evaluate how, in each of these domains, new digital technologies have enabled scholars to expand empirical evidence to understand the mechanics of transitional justice by analysing how data is produced and curated, to interrogate ethical dilemmas involved in those processes and to shift the focus from the ability of transitional justice to fulfil normative goals to how transitional justice is enacted and articulated as a process.

Suggested Citation

  • Kostovicova Denisa & Kerr Rachel & Sokolić Ivor & Fairey Tiffany & Redwood Henry & Subotić Jelena, 2022. "The “Digital Turn” in Transitional Justice Research: Evaluating Image and Text as Data in the Western Balkans," Comparative Southeast European Studies, De Gruyter, vol. 70(1), pages 24-46, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:soeuro:v:70:y:2022:i:1:p:24-46:n:7
    DOI: 10.1515/soeu-2021-0055
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    References listed on IDEAS

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