Csaba Kőrösi, President of the 77th session of the General Assembly
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International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda
(As delivered)
Mr. Secretary-General,
Ambassador Gatete,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today we mark 29 years since the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
This solemn anniversary challenges us to reflect on the processes that led to the horrific events sparked on April 7th, 1994.
To remember what happens when power is maliciously wielded, and hatred is not just left unchecked but actively instigated.
This Assembly stands united in memory of the 1 million souls whose lives were cut short in the wholesale slaughter of human beings that unfolded over those 100 days.
Families murdered in their homes. Up to a quarter million women raped. People hunted as they were fleeing in terror.
This tragedy was not an accident.
It stemmed from years of fomenting a racist ideology and waging a campaign aimed at the systematic destruction of a population.
As it was carried out – the world was silent.
We were silent despite repeated and unmistakable early warnings about the preparation of genocide.
Despite the individual heroes who tried to stop the killings.
Despite the presence of the UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda before and during the bloodshed.
And despite the General Assembly’s unanimous adoption of the Genocide Convention in 1948 – which defines genocide as a crime under international law.
To this unconscionable inaction – and in the spirit of Kwibuka – we must say, “never again.”
Never again shall we allow passivity and resignation to override action.
And never again shall we allow criminals to adorn themselves in the robes of our silence.
Because, to quote the famous words of the Hungarian poet Mihály Babits, “silent among the sinful, you are an accomplice”.
When hate and disinformation are unleashed, we must re-establish the truth. This factor is critical to forgiveness and renewal.
When the rule of law is debased, we must pursue accountability. This factor is essential to creating sustainable peace.
With strength and determination, the people of Rwanda have rebuilt their nation from the ashes of devastation.
Through the establishment of the Gacaca Courts in 2001, Rwandans drew on traditional methods of dispute resolution to hold each other accountable.
With a focus on restorative justice, they brought about reconciliation, elevated moderation over extremism and laid the foundation for sustained development.
Today, the success of these endeavors is seen everywhere.
It is seen in the gender parity in the lower house of Parliament.
It is seen in the vibrancy of Rwandan innovation.
In the resilience of its economy, and in the strength of its health care system.
Importantly, Rwanda has invested in its young people, opening opportunities for those under 20 years old – who represent half of its dynamic population.
Rwandans have built a nation that looks towards a better future.
May we in the General Assembly do the same.
Let us not shy away from our responsibilities.
Let us remain committed to upholding the rights of every individual and addressing the drivers of hate speech, online and offline.
Let us stand firmly against any form of discrimination.
And let us keep our focus on education.
Given all that we see around us in 2023, this is our duty.
And let us be sincere, this is our only choice.
I thank you.
