UNGA Set To Deliberate On Resolution Recognising Srebrenica Genocide

The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is set to deliberate on a resolution to acknowledge and commemorate the tragic events of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide. Lead by Germany and Rwanda and co-sponsored by several nations, including the United States and Bosnia-Herzegovina, this resolution aims to designate July 11th as the International Day of Reflection and Remembrance of the 1995 Srebrenica Genocide.

This resolution is significant because it represents a formal recognition by the international community of the atrocities committed during the Srebrenica genocide, where over 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically massacred by Bosnian Serb forces. The proposed resolution aims to honour the memory of the victims, condemn genocide denial, and underscore the importance of preventing similar atrocities in the future.

The resolution is guided by foundational documents such as the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

The resolution reaffirms the responsibility of States to protect civilians and ensure human rights for all individuals under their jurisdiction. It asks for States for condemnation of genocide and the obligation of member States to prevent and punish such heinous acts.

Survivors of the Srebrenica genocide, along with advocacy groups and organizations, strongly support the resolution.

Countries such as Germany, Rwanda, the United States, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Chile, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, and others have expressed their support for the resolution.

2015 Resolution

Russia played a significant role in the 2015 resolution regarding the recognition of the Srebrenica genocide. As a permanent member of the UNSC with veto power, Russia's stance on the issue carried considerable weight in the deliberations. During the discussions surrounding the resolution, Russian diplomats exercised their veto power, ultimately blocking the resolution from passing through the Security Council. This veto action effectively prevented the resolution from advancing to the General Assembly for broader consideration and adoption.

What is a resolution?

A resolution in the UNGA is a formal expression of the opinion or will of the majority of member States on a particular issue. Resolutions can cover a wide range of topics, including peace and security, human rights, development, and international law. They serve as a means for member states to voice their concerns, advocate for specific actions or policies, and guide the work of the UN and its various organs.

Resolutions can be initiated by member States, UN agencies, or specialized bodies within the UN system. They undergo a process of drafting, negotiation, and voting before being adopted by the General Assembly. Typically, resolutions require a simple majority of votes for adoption, although certain issues may require a higher threshold.