An Analysis of the Rwandan Genocide

Ibe Michael Uche, Samuel Iroye, Basil Ibebunjo

Abstract


This research paper examines the influence of culture and religion on conflict management through a case study of the Hutu-Tutsi conflict. The paper analyzes the impact of cultural and religious differences on conflict resolution and considers the advantages and disadvantages of these influences. The research draws on a range of scholarly sources to explore the role of shared values and norms, common identity, mediation, and reconciliation in conflict management. The paper also considers the negative effects of ethnocentrism, identity politics, and the use of culture and religion to justify violence.in furtherance, this paper details on the historical understanding of the Hutus, Tutsi and Twa peoples for better assimilation of the study, explains the colonial influence in the political system that reshaped Rwanda and how it triggered the genocide of 1994, and goes ahead to focus on the transformation origin of the Hutu and Tutsi. There is an elaboration on the Hutu revolution and its aftermath. This study also expatiates on the cultural and religious differences between the Hutu and Tutsi that contributed to the onset of their conflict and how these strategies were justified using culture and religion. The merits and demerits of adopting religious values and norms in conflict resolution and how these influences can be utilized to promote peaceful coexistence were outlined. The research adopted a secondary qualitative case study research method with a descriptive approach.  Overall, this research provides a nuanced and circumspect analysis of the role of culture and religion in conflict management, highlighting the need for an inclusive approach that promotes peace, understanding, and mutual respect.


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