Revisiting<i>Hotel Rwanda</i>: genocide ideology, reconciliation, and rescuers

Abstract

This article examines the tensions between the Rwandan government's discourse on reconciliation and its fight against negationism. It shows how the government's campaign against negationism has taken shape—from the law against “divisionism” in 2001 to recent accusations of “genocide ideology.” The article also explores the treatment of Hutu rescuers at the national level. It raises concerns that the broad definition and application of genocide ideology may have a negative impact on reconciliation in Rwanda.