Remarks by the President of the General Assembly,
Mr. Philemon Yang? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
9 December 2024?
(Pre-Recorded)
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today, we gather on the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime.
This solemn occasion also marks the anniversary of the Genocide Convention, which enshrined the crime of genocide in international law.
This day serves to honor the victims of all genocides—from those who perished in the Holocaust, to the Tutsi who were killed during the genocide in Rwanda.
It also serves to reaffirm our collective commitment to ensure that such horrors are neither forgotten nor repeated.
This year’s theme, “Remembrance and Prevention: The Role of Commemoration and Memory for the Prevention of Genocide,” underscores the power of memory as a tool for education and a shield against denial and apathy.
In remembering our history, however terrible it can be, we can collectively chart a path forward that protects vulnerable populations, combats hate speech, and takes a firm stand against discrimination in all its forms.
Excellencies,
The threat of genocide will persist as long as people are targeted for hate on the basis of their identity, religion, gender or any other marker.
These are risks that have been exacerbated by the misuse of modern communication and social media.
All of us must decisively act.
We must confront hate speech with tolerance, uphold human rights, and use education to instill empathy.
We must also elevate the voices of survivors, who can play a powerful role in fostering remembrance and underscoring the urgency of prevention.
Moreover, to end impunity, we must punish perpetrators and ensure justice for victims.
Excellencies,
Throughout history, genocides have occurred when we fail to act despite warning signs.
So let us never again fail to act.
Let us strive in the present to build a more compassionate future.
One rooted in vigilance, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity.
Let us honor the memory of those we have lost by renewing our efforts to protect the lives and dignity of all people, now and for generations to come.
Thank you.
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Media Contacts
Sharon Birch,?Spokesperson for?the President of the General Assembly,?Tel: + 212 963 0564, M: +1 646 342 5873, Email: birchs@un.org
Dr. Mariam Shaikh, Adviser/ Social and Digital Media/Media Relations M: +1 917 3614990, mariam.shaikh@un.org
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