Transitioning Without Reconciliation: Comparing Mechanisms For Addressing Genocide Denial In Rwanda And Bosnia
- IJLLR Journal
- 3 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Stella Nyana Ahanor, Lecturer, Faculty of Law, Catholic University of Mbeya, Tanzania, LLB (Makerere University-Kampala) PGDLP (Law Development Center-Kampala) LL (Ruaha University College -Tanzania), PHD (Ruaha Catholic University- Tanzania)
ABSTRACT
Rwanda and Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) have both faced the devastating consequences of genocide and have subsequently implemented different strategies to foster reconciliation and address genocide denial. Genocide denial laws have been enacted in both BiH and Rwanda, but with differing outcomes. In both Rwanda and BiH, the law aims primarily to deter genocide and uphold the rule of law; however, BiH has largely struggled in achieving these goals, as evidenced by the limited number of prosecutions. This inadequacy has adversely affected reconciliation efforts within the region.
Conversely, Rwanda’s approach to genocide denial legislation is distinctly oriented toward fostering peace and reconciliation. The Rwandan legal framework has facilitated numerous prosecutions related to denial, resulting in a marked decline in genocide denial over time and ultimately contributing positively to the reconciliation process. A key factor behind the efficacy of Rwanda’s genocide denial law is its integration with prior transitional justice mechanisms, which established a robust foundation for legal and societal healing, a contrast to the situation in BiH.
Keywords: Genocide, genocide denial, genocide denial laws, reconciliation, prosecutions, acknowledgement, apologies
