Governance and Transitional Justice

Societies emerging from protracted conflict often face fractured legal systems, weakened institutions and gaps in accountability. Objective insight into transitional governance frameworks and power structures is essential to support fair, transparent and durable reform.

In societies transitioning from protracted conflict to transitional governance, the erosion of state authority leaves behind fractured legal systems, compromised institutions and a vacuum of accountability. Restoring the social contract requires the diligent re-establishment of transparent, fair and accountable governance and justice mechanisms. For international actors seeking clear and consistent processes, navigating unpredictable practices, weak institutions and diffuse power structures significantly compromises the space and viability for interventions. In the absence of objective and expert insight that addresses and advises on the challenges of prevailing transitional governance frameworks, dynamics and stakeholders, international actors risk normalising and perpetuating informal practices.

Sector expertise

How We Help Clients

MECS approaches governance and transitional justice through independent and rigorous institutional analyses. Through our extensive field teams, we gauge local perceptions regarding the functional realities of judicial frameworks, local councils and state administrative systems across contested environments. Concurrently, our technical experts, who include legal analysts, political scientists and governance specialists, examine the structural vulnerabilities within existing frameworks to identify gaps in accountability and transparency. By combining micro-level attitudes with macro-level analysis, we support our partners in delivering governance interventions and institutional reforms that are accountable, culturally viable and capable of upholding human rights and generating the durability required for long-term social and economic stability.

successful project

Selected case studies

Selected case studies and publications across this expertise area are available on the Case Studies page.

The Role of Tribes in the Release of IS Combatants in Northeast Syria
Study of the role tribes play in the release and reintegration of IS combatants in northeast Syria, including community brokering, accountability and security trade-offs.
The Role of Tribes in the Release of IS Combatants in Northeast Syria
Do Syrian Communities Perceive Former IS Combatants as a Threat?
Perception study on how Syrian communities view the reintegration of former IS combatants — exploring threat perception, security concerns and conditions for acceptance.
Do Syrian Communities Perceive Former IS Combatants as a Threat?
Between States of Movement
Research note on patterns of secondary movement and displacement transitions across Syria, and what they reveal about household decision-making under prolonged uncertainty.
Between States of Movement
Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons in Syria
Long-form research on durable solutions for IDPs in Syria — return, local integration, settlement elsewhere — and the conditions under which each pathway becomes viable.
Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons in Syria
Deir-ez-Zor Rapid Needs Assessment — February 2025
Multi-sectoral rapid needs assessment in Deir-ez-Zor governorate. 416 households surveyed across 7 communities to identify protection, shelter, livelihoods and basic services needs.
Deir-ez-Zor Rapid Needs Assessment — February 2025

Let’s Collaborate with Us!

Whether you need field-based evidence, independent verification or specialist advice, MECS can shape a service around your operating context and decision needs.

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