A forgiveness-based approach: an analysis of forgiveness and its uses in the basque conflict
From the second half of the twentieth century, forgiveness has come to occupy an important place in political transition processes, both in the passage from dictatorship to democracy and at the end of violent internal political conflicts. The implications of forgiveness are not limited to moral or religious issues, but also involve social, political and legal aspects that further complicate the widely disparate interpretations of its conditions (acknowledgement of fault, repentance, etc.) and purposes (reconciliation, social cohesion, justice, etc.).

FORGIVEBASQ aims to study the uses of forgiveness in the Basque conflict and its role in the current peace process. Firstly, I will develop a theoretical framework on forgiveness by adopting a philosophical approach that incorporates a transversal moral, political and social perspective and helps to illustrate its complex transformations and diverse practices. This transdisciplinary theoretical framework will be articulated around three axes: history, areas and conditions/purposes of forgiveness. Secondly, a diachronic study of forgiveness in the Basque context will be carried out by means of a documentary analysis. This will serve to identify and explain how forgiveness has been present in the Basque conflict, what role it plays in the peace process, how it has evolved and been transformed, and the key points at which forgiveness emerged in the political and social debate. Previously developed analytical tools will be employed in this endeavor.

Training activities and academic dissemination measures will be complemented by transfer activities that include meetings and public activities with Basque institutions and social organizations. This will go hand-in-hand with the development of educational resources that will use the project findings to achieve a significant social impact.