High Commissioner statement in commemoration of the Rwanda genocide

Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,

The haunting images of the Rwandan genocide are still painfully fresh in our minds.

Just twenty-nine years ago, unfathomable human tragedy was playing out in this African nation.

Over a period of only 100 days, more than a million people were systematically murdered.

These were acts of unspeakable brutality and inhumanity.

Where men, women and children were slaughtered simply because of their ethnicity.

Where one million children became orphans.

The majority of victims were Tutsi, while moderate Hutu, Twa and others who courageously opposed the genocide also lost their lives.

Today, we honour their memory.

We also acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of survivors who – despite their profound loss – have persevered to rebuild their country, their communities, and their lives.

Rwanda’s story is one of immense tragedy, but it is also one of remarkable resilience.

Incredible strides have been made in health, education and environmental policies.

Women’s rights have been prioritised, marked by women’s active involvement in political
processes and their indispensable contributions to development and peacebuilding.

While many deep divisions have been healed, challenges still linger.

To secure a future where the human rights of all Rwandans are protected, it is crucial – now – to protect civic and democratic space and uphold fundamental freedoms.

Colleagues,

Genocide occurs when humanity’s moral compass fails.

When hateful ideologies proliferate and when State-sanctioned dehumanization of an entire group of people is allowed to take root and spread. 

Despite its promises of never again, in Rwanda in 1994, the international community failed to act.

Confronting these abominable tragedies of the past is the only way to advance towards a future with peace and dignity.

It means firmly rejecting and speaking out about all forms of racism and discrimination.

It means addressing the root causes of conflict and violence and taking swift action to prevent them.

And it means eradicating impunity, holding perpetrators responsible, and affording victims the justice they deserve.

Avoiding mass atrocities means an unwavering commitment – from everybody – to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The story of Rwanda has shown us that peace and justice can triumph over the vile forces of cruelty and hate.

We must never forget the lessons of this tragedy.  We owe it to the victims and survivors to stand united and prevent it from ever happening again anywhere in the world.