risk factors of the Rwanda genocide
1. Historical tensions: Rwanda has a long history of ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups, dating back to Belgian colonial rule when the two groups were categorized and treated differently.
2. Political instability: The political landscape in Rwanda was marked by instability and corruption, with power struggles between different ethnic groups and political factions.
3. Propaganda and dehumanization: The government and media in Rwanda propagated anti-Tutsi propaganda, dehumanizing the Tutsi ethnic group and portraying them as a threat to the Hutu population.
4. Arming of civilians: The government distributed weapons to civilian Hutu militias, such as the Interahamwe, which were used to carry out attacks on Tutsi civilians.
5. Economic disparities: Tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi were exacerbated by economic disparities, with the Tutsi minority often holding more wealth and power than the Hutu majority.
6. International indifference: The international community failed to intervene or take action to prevent the genocide, despite clear warning signs and calls for help from within Rwanda.
7. Genocidal rhetoric: Political leaders and influential figures in Rwanda openly called for the extermination of Tutsis, inciting violence and hatred towards the minority ethnic group.
8. Lack of justice and accountability: Perpetrators of violence and genocide were not held accountable for their actions, leading to a culture of impunity and further violence.