Rwandan Genocide

The Rwandan Genocide was a mass slaughter in Rwanda over about 100 days in April–July 1994, targeting ethnic Tutsi and some politically moderate Hutu.

The Rwandan Genocide was a mass slaughter in Rwanda over about 100 days in April–July 1994, targeting ethnic Tutsi and some politically moderate Hutu. It is widely recognized as one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century.

What it is

The genocide began after President Juvénal Habyarimana's plane was shot down on 6 April 1994. Over roughly 100 days, Hutu extremist-led government forces, militias, and civilian participants carried out systematic killings. The main targets were ethnic Tutsi, along with moderate Hutu and other opponents of the regime.

Key details

Death toll estimates vary widely, with many sources citing about 800,000 killed. The violence included mass murder, roadblocks, widespread sexual violence, and local participation. International actors and UN peacekeepers were widely criticized for failing to prevent or stop the violence.

Why it matters

The genocide ended in July 1994 when the Rwandan Patriotic Front took control. Accountability efforts included the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and domestic prosecutions. Canada is relevant because Canadian peacekeepers served in Rwanda under the UN, and the episode influenced Canadian discussions of peacekeeping and genocide prevention.