International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime

December 9, Tuesday

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime is an international day of observance proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly. It is observed annually on December 9.

What this day is about
This day is dedicated to remembering the victims of genocide, as well as the commitment of states and the international community to prevent such crimes: to avoid repeated mass killings, protect vulnerable groups, and hold perpetrators accountable.

History and legal basis
December 9 was chosen because on this day in 1948, the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide was adopted — the first international human rights treaty.
In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly established this day of observance, emphasizing the need to remember past tragedies and strengthen global preparedness to prevent such crimes in the future.

What genocide is (according to the Convention)
Genocide is a crime committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. Such actions include:

* killing members of the group
* causing serious physical or psychological harm
* creating conditions leading to the total or partial destruction of the group
* measures aimed at preventing births within the group
* forcibly transferring children from one group to another

Why this day is needed
This day serves several important purposes:

* commemorating the victims of genocide and preserving their dignity
* drawing attention to the need to prevent mass crimes
* strengthening international solidarity and joint efforts in human rights
* reminding states of their international obligations to prevent and punish genocide

How this day is observed

* holding official remembrance ceremonies, moments of silence, and educational events
* organizing conferences and discussions on the history of genocides, human rights, and early conflict prevention
* publishing research materials and reports on contemporary risks of mass crimes
* work by human rights organizations aimed at raising awareness and fostering intercultural respect

Why it is important to remember and act
Genocide is one of the gravest crimes against humanity, and its consequences remain with the global community for decades. Remembering the victims helps not only to mourn, but also to learn so that such tragedies do not happen again.

This day reminds us that preventing genocide is the responsibility of all states and every individual, and that respect for human dignity and rights is the foundation of peace and security.

Official website

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime – days left: 5. Create Countdown to Event

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime in other years

2021 December 9, Thursday
2022 December 9, Friday
2023 December 9, Saturday
2024 December 9, Monday
2026 December 9, Wednesday

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime in other countries