The International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda is observed globally on 7th April each year to honor over 1 million victims who perished during the 100-day mass slaughter in Rwanda.
- The day also acknowledges the suffering of Hutus and others who opposed the genocide.
- April 7 2025, marked the 31st anniversary of this tragic event, emphasizing remembrance, education, and prevention of future atrocities.
Background:
i.The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) first designated 7th April as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide in Rwanda through resolution A/RES/58/234 on 23rd December 2003.
ii.The inaugural observance occurred on 7th April 2004, marking the 10th anniversary.
iii.On 26th January 2018, the UNGA amended the title to “International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda” via resolution A/72/L.31. This change aimed to explicitly recognize the Tutsi community as the primary target.
iv.Later, on 20th April 2020, resolution A/RES/74/273 reaffirmed the title and aligned the UN’s outreach program with the genocide’s historical context.
About The 1994 Rwandan Genocide:
i.Duration: The genocide began on 7th April 1994 and lasted until 15th July 1994 (100 days).
ii.Victims: Over 1 million Tutsis were systematically killed by Hutu extremists. Moderate Hutus and opposition figures were also targeted.
iii.Trigger: The assassination of Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana on 6th April 1994 escalated ethnic tensions.
2025 Observance:
i.Commemorative Ceremony: Organized in partnership with the Permanent Delegation of Rwanda to Paris, France-based United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the event will feature speeches, survivor testimonies, and cultural performances.
- As a specialized UN agency, UNESCO emphasizes historical education to prevent denial and distortion of the genocide.
ii.Photo Exhibition: Titled “Kwibuka: Rwanda 1994”, the exhibition on UNESCO’s headquarters’ fences (Paris) showcased 4 UNESCO World Heritage(Nyamata, Murambi, Bisesero and Gisozi) listed genocide memorial sites.
- Curated by Aegis Trust (a UK-based genocide prevention organization) and UNESCO in March 2024, it will be displayed throughout April and May 2025.
iii.Observance Led by UNON:The United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), in collaboration with the High Commission of Rwanda, lead the observance marking the 31st Anniversary of the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
- The theme for 2025 is “Remember, Unite, Renew”, highlighting the importance of remembrance, national unity, and the commitment to rebuilding and reconciliation.
About United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON):
Director-General(DG) -Zainab Hawa Bangura
Headquarters – Nairobi, Kenya
Established – 1996
