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The Auschwitz Institute for the Prevention of Genocide and Mass Atrocities (AIPG) observes December 9 as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and the Prevention of this Crime. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in September 2017 through Resolution 69/323, this annual day underscores the significance of memorializing and remembering victims as a means of averting future genocides.
In 1948, the Genocide Convention made history by putting the crime of genocide on the global stage. The heartfelt words in its preamble acknowledge that throughout history, genocide has caused immense losses to humanity. It calls for a united front through international cooperation to free humankind from its dreadful scourge. Presently, 153 States have ratified the Convention. The ongoing commitment to achieve universal ratification and ensure its comprehensive implementation is critical for the effective advancement of genocide prevention efforts.
In commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Genocide Convention, this year's focus revolves around the theme, "A Living Force in World Society: The Legacy of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide." The aim is to highlight significant achievements originating from the Convention, underscoring its enduring legacy while reflecting on the collective efforts that culminated in its formulation and adoption. Additionally, the UN is organizing an event that will earnestly acknowledge the ongoing challenges impeding its practical implementation, as genocide is still a global threat, with many populations at risk of this crime.
At AIPG, our vision for a future free from genocides and mass atrocities centers on a collaborative approach. We work closely with academic and civil society experts to empower governments, policymakers, and police departments globally, providing them with the tools and concepts necessary to confront and overcome these daunting challenges.
Recognizing the profound impact of education and memorialization in deterring atrocity crimes, AIPG places significant emphasis on these aspects of prevention. Through our technical assistance and capacity-building programs, AIPG actively contributes to implementing preventive strategies, steadfastly upholding the commitment of 'never again' in every region we work. Together, we strive to build a world where the echoes of past atrocities serve as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to prevent them from happening again.
Eugenia Carbone, Director of AIPG's Latin American Program and Technical Secretariat of the Latin American Network for Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention, emphasized AIPG's efforts in the region:
The International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and the Prevention of this Crime is always a reminder of the need to deepen the spaces for joint work and to keep developing concrete actions for prevention. Today, more than ever, in light of the escalation of conflict around the world, the best way to honor the victims is to unite against discrimination, anti-Semitism, islamophobia, xenophobia, and violence. AIPG’s Latin American Program joins the international community's commemoration and reflection of this day and commits to continue the efforts developed following the entry into force of the Convention. Creating conditions for the non-recurrence of genocide is not the task of one organization; it is achieved by the accompaniment of regional, national, and local atrocity prevention initiatives, as well as the development of actions to better protect the rights of people, especially those in greater risk. Only through the joint efforts of our partners, colleagues, and the LAP/AIPG community can we honor the memory of the victims of these heinous crimes and build a world that prevents genocide and other mass atrocities.
