Mechanism Principals participate in United Nations commemorative event to mark the 75th Anniversary of the Genocide Convention and the International Day of the Victims of the crime and prevention
Yesterday, at United Nations Headquarters, President Graciela Gatti Santana and Prosecutor Serge Brammertz took part in the commemorative conference convened by Ms. Alice Wairimu Nderitu, the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide. The event marked the 75th Anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime.
Following opening remarks from the Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly and the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, three panels were held focusing on: (i) accountability; (ii) keeping the memory alive; and (iii) prevention. In her contribution President Gatti Santana emphasised that providing wide access to the consolidated legacy of the ad hoc Tribunals and the Mechanism, and to educate youth is an essential tool in the prevention of genocide. The Prosecutor reflected on the fact that while the international community has too often failed to prevent genocide, it has successfully ensured the prosecution and punishment of perpetrators of genocide crimes in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia. Other panelists included the Directors of the Srebrenica Memorial Center and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The event also dedicated a segment in tribute to Raphael Lemkin for his tireless efforts to establish the Genocide Convention.
During the discussion speakers affirmed the continued relevance of the Convention and its legacy. They also highlighted the challenges that remain in the prevention of genocide. The event provided an opportunity to renew the global commitment to prevent genocide and punish the perpetrators.