Postscript: Developments in Rwanda and Burundi in the 1990s

Abstract

Rwanda and Burundi have in the 1990s received extensive media publicity as a consequence of widespread carnage and genocidal attacks. There has also been major displacement of population, involving a mass exodus of refugees into neighbouring countries, particularly Zaïre (Congo Democratic Republic), Uganda, and Tanzania. Such developments have attracted the attention of the international community at various levels. Neighbouring countries have been concerned about regional stability, the salience of ethnic issues, and problems arising from acceptance of large numbers of refugees. The Organization of African Unity has shown concern to the point where it has threatened to intervene and the United Nations has been involved to the extent of actually sending peace-keeping forces. The devastation caused by the conflict has also led to involvement of medical and food aid agencies, and the human rights issues have been the subject of concern by Amnesty International. The ethnic issue has remained the key factor in politics. Events since 1994, in the aftermath of the death of the presidents of both countries, are of particular significance.