International response to the Rwandan genocide

The international community's response to the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda has drawn significant criticism. During about 100 days, an estimated 1,100,000 Rwandans, mostly Tutsi and moderate Hutu, were murdered by Interahamwe militias. UNAMIR was stationed in Rwanda, but the UN and Belgium withdrew troops rather than reinforcing the force. The remaining peacekeepers protected selected refuges and sought a political agreement, but were unable and unauthorised to stop the violence.

Period

Around 100 days, between 7 April and 15 July 1994

UN peacekeeping force

UNAMIR had been stationed in Rwanda since October 1993

Role of remaining force

Protected selected havens and sought a political agreement