International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime takes place on December 9 of every year. We are pleased to observe this year’s event with sobriety and awareness. Genocide is a crime frowned upon for violating human rights. There’s been a joint effort by the United Nations to end this evil.
History of International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
In the history of humanity, genocide stands as one of the greatest crimes and evils perpetrated by man against man. It constitutes the deliberate killing and maiming of a nation, group, ethnic unit, tribe, religious or political unit to destroy or wipe them out, including women and children of such affiliations.
Historically, stories of genocide and massacre of groups of people, religious and political units exist in several history books and religious texts like the Bible, which recorded the destruction of the Midianites by Israel. But the first official record of genocide can be traced down to the Punic Wars in Third Century B.C. between Carthage and Rome which resulted in the destruction of Carthage cities, the death of millions, and the condemnation of the meager survivors into slavery.
Following the killings of the Punic people, several cases of genocide continued to appear all over the world. China had over 200,000 of the Wu Hu and Jie people massacred, Congo under Leopold II of Belgium saw two to 15 million Congolese dying under his oppression, Ethiopia, Russia, and Germany reached a high peak during the Second World War, with the particular horror of the Holocaust which saw the organized death of about six million Jews under the Nazi-German rule.
Born out of hatred and dislike, the evils and propaganda of genocide tend to carry on even till later generations in many cases. The International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime is a day to remind us all of our humanity, to hold a remembrance for those who have died due to genocide and also each lends our voices against the evil act in places where it is still occurring and prevent against future occurrences.
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime timeline
Rome destroys the cities of Carthage; its people are killed or forced into slavery.
Six million Jews are put to death by the Nazis under Adolf Hitler.
Raphael Lemkin, a lawyer, coins the term ‘genocide’ after his family is killed.
On December 9, the U.N. accepted the convention by Raphael Lemkin.
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime FAQs
What constitutes genocide?
According to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, genocide is anything that includes inflicting harm on a group of people, religious or political unit that deprives them of their basic human rights.
How does the United Nations prevent genocide?
Genocide although most times preempted, happens without warning, catching all unaware, or through systemic and several events leading to its occurrence. The United Nations makes use of early warning systems, dialogue, sensitization, and in extreme cases the use of military support to prevent and stop genocide.
Which countries are currently experiencing genocide now?
In 2021, six countries were said to be perpetuating genocide within their borders. These include China, Ethiopia, Iraq, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Syria.
How to Observe International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
Observe a moment of silence for victims
It is a time to hold a remembrance for those who have died due to genocide, be it family members or unknown strangers. Observe a moment of silence in honor of these innocent souls and use the moment to reflect on how you can contribute to making the world a better, safer, and more secure space.
Live-stream the event
Every year the event is aired virtually by the United Nations where the Secretary-General and other notable individuals speak on the commitment of the international community to end genocide. Join the program to bring yourself up to date on the current realities of the fight against genocide.
Lend your voice
It’s another opportunity to lend your voice against the evils of genocide. Share the day on social media with relevant hashtags, join and sign different petitions against genocide in countries where it is currently occurring, and donate to charities and organizations invested in helping people facing threats of genocide in several parts of the world.
5 Facts About Genocide That You Should Know
Totalitarian governments
Most genocides are perpetuated under authoritarian governments by dictators.
An attack on minorities
Throughout history, genocide is mainly directed toward the minority.
History of ‘genocide’
Raphael Lemkin coined the term after the Second World War.
The convention on the prevention and punishment
It was effected in 1951, and the U.S. ratified and joined the movement in 1988.
The Rwandan genocide
The Rwandan genocide lasted about 100 days, with over 800,000 Tutsis dying.
Why International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime is Important
It commemorates the victims
This day reminds us all of the innocents who have died as a result of the evil acts of genocide. It is a time to remember them and lend a hand of support to the survivors and their families.
It could help to prevent future genocide
Prevention of future occurrences of genocide serves as a critical reason why this day is important. It is a time to remind the international community of the commitment toward the protection of minorities in communities all over the world and the prevention of needless killings.
It helps to establish peace and security
This day reminds us of why peace is important and should be cherished. It preaches love for one’s neighbor, unity, and cooperation first above anything else.
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 9 | Monday |
| 2025 | December 9 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | December 9 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | December 9 | Thursday |
| 2028 | December 9 | Saturday |
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