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Politics of Denial and Non-Recognition of Genocide

This project illuminates how factors such as state sovereignty, geopolitical dynamics, and media influence shape the dynamics of denial and non-recognition in the realm of genocide studies.

The Kutupalong Rohingya Camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

31 July 2024

The project focuses on understanding the politics of genocide diplomacy in recognising the Rohingya Genocide in Myanmar in 2017, including the consequences on the state and society of both Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The challenge

This research project delves into the politics of genocide diplomacy in Bangladesh and Myanmar and examines the consequences on both nations and affected communities. It aims to identify patterns and biases in international responses through a comparative analysis of acknowledged genocides, thereby contributing to the development of a theoretical framework for understanding the dynamics of genocide denial in different contexts. Additionally, the project explores the psychological, socio-political, and cultural impacts of non-recognition on survivors, refugees, and descendants. By providing actionable recommendations for international bodies, nation-states, and civil society organisations, the project seeks to address and rectify the issue of non-recognition, fostering more robust and transparent responses to future atrocities.

Objectives

The specific aims of the project are:

  • To delve deeply into understanding the Rohingya Genocide in Myanmar in 2017, exploring both domestic narratives within implicated countries and the international community’s stance.
  • To conduct a comprehensive comparative study contrasting the aforementioned genocides with other internationally recognised genocides. This will uncover patterns, biases, and geopolitical considerations influencing international reactions and recognition.
  • To gauge the psychological, socio-political, and cultural impacts of non-recognition on the survivors, refugees, and descendants of the victims. This will shed light on the real-world implications of international silence or denial.
  • To formulate actionable recommendations for international bodies, nation-states, and civil society organisations. This will be geared towards addressing and rectifying the current status of non-recognition and ensuring more robust and transparent reactions to future atrocities.

Funding details

The project is funded by the British Academy under the ODA International Interdisciplinary Research Projects programme 2024.

Project duration

30 April 2024 to 29 April 2026

Project team

Principal Investigator: Dr Bayes Ahmed, Department of Risk and Disaster Reduction (RDR), UCL

Co-Investigators:

  • Dr M Sanjeeb Hossain – Director (Research), Centre for Peace and Justice, BRAC University, Bangladesh
  • Dr Kajalie Shehreen Islam – Associate Professor, Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • Dr Umme Busra Fateha Sultana – Associate Professor, Department of Women and Gender Studies, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • Dr Palash Kamruzzaman – Professor of Sociology and Social Policy, South Wales Business School, University of South Wales, UK
  • Dr Nasir Uddin – Professor of Cultural Anthropology, Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Chittagong, Bangladesh

More information

ImageThe Kutupalong Rohingya Camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, by Dr Bayes Ahmed.