International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

The International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda aims to commemorate the memory of the victims of the genocide and to condemn the gross acts of violence that occurred during that time. The observance also aims to foster understanding and encourage reflection on the causes of such atrocities. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) established the day with a resolve to prevent further instances of such extreme violence, promote peace, harmony, and ensure respect for human rights worldwide.

The origin of this day dates back to 2003, nearly a decade after the horrific genocide, when UNGA designated 7th April as the official day for this observance. For New Zealand, a nation that champions human rights and the rule of law, this commemoration upholds values that closely align with its core principles. The country was among the nations that supported the observance's establishment. It also serves as a reminder of New Zealand's firm position against human rights abuses and its commitment to help in preventing the recurrence of such mass atrocities in the future.

In New Zealand, the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda is marked with various activities that include educational talks about the genocide and discussions about the country's resilient recovery. These events are usually held in schools, universities, and public institutions, fostering broad participation in remembering the victims and reflecting on lessons learned. The observance takes place on the designated date of April 7th each year.

Facts & quotes about this day

• More than one million people were systematically killed in less than three months. The Tutsi people made up the majority of deaths, but the Hutu, the Twa, and others who opposed the genocide were also targeted.
• On this day, we honor those who were murdered, we reflect on the suffering and we recognize the resilience of those who have survived. As we join in solidarity with people of Rwanda, we must take a hard look at today's world and ensure that we heed the lessons of 27 years ago - United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, 2021
• New Zealand's active engagement on peacekeeping efforts worldwide also strengthens its stance on genocide prevention. For instance, New Zealand contributed peacekeeping forces to the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) in the aftermath of the genocide in 1994.
• Wherever men or women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views, that place must—at that moment—become the center of the universe. - Elie Wiesel

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Watch UNESCO's panel discussion From Hate Speech to Genocide: lessons from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
• Explore several photo exhibits curated by survivors.
• Spread awareness online through social media by using hashtags such as:
  #NeverAgain and #RememberRwanda
• Read a book to learn more about 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda:
  We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed with Our Families: Stories from Rwanda - by Philip Gourevitch: The author offers a detailed account of his time spent in Rwanda, which included meeting people who experienced the horrors of the genocide first-hand.
  Macalester Moments: Arches in the Storm - by Paul Rusesabagina: Although presented as a novel, this work offers a personal account of the author's experience through the genocide.