Implementing Reparations in the Al Mahdi Case

Abstract The city of Timbuktu evokes remoteness and, since 2012, chaos and destruction. During an armed conflict in the north Mali, radicals took over destroyed several its mausoleums. One perpetrators, Ahmad Al Faqi Mahdi, was convicted at International Criminal Court (ICC) for his participation destruction 10 religious historic buildings. unprecedented nature Mahdi case led to equally question reparations phase: who are victims cultural heritage how should their harm be addressed? Drawing from author’s personal involvement as appointed expert, this article is a journey into resolved practical challenges it posed during implementation phase. These challenges, while specific case, provide framework demonstrate level complexity involved reparations. focuses on three ‘monumental’ challenges: (i) whether ‘unborn children’ included pool given that meant preserved benefit future generations; (ii) what place women ought occupy reparations, despite customary practices side-lining them; (iii) decision memorialize events surrounding crime. On latter challenge, introduces concept ‘restorative agency’, working principle adopted ensure memorialization reflect experience victims. Incidentally, reveals some work Trust Fund Victims, one ICC’s least comprehended creations, briefly discusses role experts moving forward.