Genocide Prevention Day

Genocide Prevention Day History

Genocide Prevention Day, also known as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of Genocide, serves as a global reminder of the devastating impact of genocides throughout history. Its purpose is to honour the memory of victims, raise awareness, and mobilise efforts to prevent future genocides. This observance also seeks to promote a global culture of tolerance, empathy, and respect for human rights, as well as urging governments and individuals to work collectively against genocide and other crimes against humanity.

The idea for Genocide Prevention Day was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, acknowledging the need for the international community to come together to combat mass atrocities. This day holds significant meaning for New Zealanders as the country is known for its active role in promoting peace, security, and respect for human rights on the international stage. The New Zealand government supports various endeavours to prevent atrocities, from participating in peacekeeping missions to assisting in the global fight against terrorism.

In New Zealand, Genocide Prevention Day is observed through various activities organised by educational institutions, governmental and non-governmental organisations, and community groups. These activities include educational programmes, seminars, and exhibitions focusing on genocide prevention and promoting human rights. Public engagement is encouraged as a means to honour the memory of those who lost their lives in genocides and to create a more inclusive and caring society. Genocide Prevention Day is observed annually on 9th December, following the UN resolution, aligning with the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in 1948.

Genocide Prevention Day facts

• According to the U.N High Commissioner for Refugees agency, over 68 million people around the world are displaced due to conflict and persecution.
• The word genocide was created in 1944 by lawyer Raphael Lemkin. It comes from the Greek word genos, meaning family, tribe, or race, and the Latin suffix –cide, meaning killing.
• The Genocide Convention defines genocide as any of the following acts:
  a) Killing members of a group
  b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of a group
  c) Deliberately inflicting on a group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part
  d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within a group
  e) Forcibly transferring children of a group to another group
• The New Zealand Government has a long-standing commitment to accepting and resettling refugees escaping conflicts and persecution, including cases where genocide and mass atrocities occur. Through its Refugee Quota Program, New Zealand aims to offer protection and support for some of the world's most vulnerable individuals and families.
• New Zealand actively supports the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other international courts and tribunals that focus on the prosecution of genocide and other crimes against humanity. This support includes cooperation with investigations and adherence to relevant international law.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Genocide Prevention Day

Top things to do in NZ for Genocide Prevention Day

• Learn the history of genocidal events to help prevent future incidents. There have been efforts to deny or rewrite history regarding genocidal events, most notably by the Turkish government. They have continued to deny their part in the Armenian genocide. Attempts to deny responsibility or alter reality allow oppressive regimes to continue unabated and it opens the door for future incidents to occur.
• Volunteer or donate to organizations working towards genocide prevention, supporting victims, or advocacy.
• Arrange visits to local memorials or museums that provide insights into genocide, such as the Holocaust Centre of New Zealand.