International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime 2023: Every year on December 9, we observe the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime. We are happy to witness the event this year in a sober and conscious manner. Genocide is not acceptable as a crime against human rights. The United Nations has been working together to put an end to this evil.
The History of the International Day of Commemoration and Recognition of the Victims of Genocide and Its Prevention
Genocide is one of the worst crimes and evils committed by humans against other humans in recorded history. It is the intentional murder and disfigurement of members of a nation, tribe, ethnic group, religion, or political organization with the goal of eradicating or destroying them, including their women and children.
The Bible, which describes Israel’s destruction of the Midianites, is one of many historical books and religious texts that contain accounts of genocide and massacre of people, political, and religious groups. However, the Punic Wars between Carthage and Rome in the third century B.C., which left millions dead, destroyed Carthage’s cities, and sentenced the few survivors to slavery, are the first known instances of genocide.
Numerous instances of genocide persisted to surface worldwide after the Punic people were massacred. Over 200,000 Wu Hu and Jie people were massacred in China, two to 15 million Congolese people died under Leopold II of Belgium’s oppression, Ethiopia, Russia, and Germany reached a high point during the Second World War, with the Holocaust—the deliberate killing of approximately six million Jews under Nazi-German rule—being the particular horror.
The evils and propaganda of genocide, which are often perpetuated even into later generations, stem from animosity and dislike. On the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, we honor the memory of those who have lost their lives to genocide, remind ourselves of our shared humanity, and unite in speaking out against the evil act in those places where it still occurs and preventing its recurrence.
Methods for commemorating this day
Hold a silent moment in honor of the victims.
This is a time to remember everyone who has perished in a genocide, whether they were strangers or relatives. Honor these innocent lives by observing a moment of silence. During this time, consider how you can help make the world a better, safer, and more secure place.
Watch the event live.
The Secretary-General and other dignitaries speak at the annual virtual event hosted by the UN about the commitment of the global community to put an end to genocide. Enroll in the program to stay informed about the state of the fight against genocide today.
Raise your voice.
This is an additional chance for you to speak out against the crimes of genocide. Use pertinent hashtags to celebrate the day on social media, sign and participate in various petitions opposing genocide in the nations where it is happening, and donate to charities and organizations that support those in need across the globe who are threatened with genocide.
Bodhi Day 2023: Date, History and ways to celebrate it
Five Genocide Facts You Should Be Aware of
totalitarian regimes
The majority of genocides are carried out by dictators in authoritarian regimes.
A strike against the minority
Genocide has mostly targeted minorities throughout history.
The past of “genocide”
The phrase was first used by Raphael Lemkin following World War II.
The convention for the deterrence and penalization of
The United States ratified and joined the movement in 1988 after it was put into effect in 1951.
The genocide in Rwanda
During the roughly 100-day Rwandan genocide, more than 800,000 Tutsis perished.
Why it’s important to observe this day
It honors the victims.
This day serves as a reminder to all of the innocent people who have lost their lives due to heinous acts of genocide. Now is the time to pay tribute to them and offer the survivors and their families our support.
It might aid in averting more genocides.
Preventing genocides in the future is a major factor in the significance of this day. This is an opportunity to reaffirm the international community’s commitment to ending needless deaths and protecting minorities in communities across the globe.
It promotes security and tranquility.
This day serves as a reminder of the value of and need for peace. Above all, it emphasizes love for one’s neighbor, harmony, and cooperation.
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 |
---|---|---|
2023 | December 9 | Saturday |
2024 | December 9 | Monday |
2025 | December 9 | Tuesday |
2026 | December 9 | Wednesday |
2027 | December 9 | Thursday |