Under resolution 69/323, adopted on 29 September 2015, the United Nations General Assembly officially proclaimed 9 December as the International Day for the Remembrance, Dignity and Prevention of the Crime of Genocide.
This important date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide by the United Nations General Assembly on 9 December 1948. Each year, the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide organizes various events to mark this international day, paying tribute to the victims of genocide and recognizing the adoption of the Convention. The 1948 Genocide Convention represents a landmark in international law, as it formally defines the crime of genocide for the first time. Its preamble recognises the profound historical impact of genocide on humanity and emphasises the need for international cooperation to eradicate this deplorable scourge. With 153 States having ratified the Convention to date, achieving universal ratification remains a key step towards progress in the prevention of genocide. In addition to mandating the punishment of genocide, the Convention places a fundamental emphasis on the obligation to prevent this crime.
Over the past 75 years, the Genocide Convention has played a key role in shaping international criminal law, ensuring the accountability of perpetrators and strengthening the voices of victims. The principles set out in the Convention have played a key role in international criminal tribunals, and today genocide is recognized as one of the core crimes under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court. The Convention has not only supported national jurisdictions in holding perpetrators accountable, but has also provided a framework to support early warning systems and catalyse prevention mechanisms at national, regional and international levels.
The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Slovakia stands in solidarity with the commemoration of the International Day for the Remembrance and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and joins the global community in reflecting on the historical significance of this day. Recognizing the enduring importance of the Genocide Convention, we reaffirm our commitment to prevent genocide and protect human rights for all. On the 75th anniversary of the Convention, let us strive together to create a world in which the principles enshrined in this landmark agreement guide our efforts to promote peace, justice and the dignity of every individual.