Varför blir människor massmördare? - en analys av folkmordet i Rwanda

Sammanfattning: The genocide in Rwanda was the most horrific the world had witnessed since World War II. De-spite the magnitude of the bloodbath, UN remained passive. This essay will deal with the problem of genocide. Why do ordinary men and women become brutal killers? The theoretical approach is based on psycho social, sociological and criminological theories. It will focus on the denial of victim, appealing to higher loyalties, denial of responsibility and obedience. Mentioned elements may, according to the author, contribute to an explanation why genocide occur. An important element in the analysis of the genocide in Rwanda is the racial ideology, implemented by the colonialists, which separated Tutsis from Hutus. This resulted in a polarized state, in which identification and empathy with the other group is limited. The loss of identification and empathy generated emotions of fear and hostility during the war against the Tutsi guerrilla, RPF. Rwanda also has a tradition of obedience to authority. This tradition goes back to the precolonial era. It was further strengthened by colonial states. The racial ideology, combined with the tradition of obedience may be regarded as major causes to the genocide 1994. In addition the political elite has a tremendous responsibility. It was Hutu extremists within the elite who planned and organised the genocide. Without the leadership's Genocidal intention it is very uncertain the massacres would be executed. Keywords: Rwanda, Genocide, Holocaust, Hutu, Tutsi