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Türkiye stated on late Tuesday that the situation in Gaza serves as a painful reminder and warning of the urgent need to prevent the repetition of grave international crimes such as genocide.
The United Nations General Assembly held a session in commemoration of the "International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of Genocide and the Prevention of this Crime."
Gulsah Cumurcu Kader, deputy permanent representative of Türkiye to the United Nations, drew attention to the fact that although the promise of "never again" given after World War II and the Holocaust has taken root in collective consciences, the international community continues to witness grave atrocities that could lead to genocide today.
"The situation in Gaza serves as a painful reminder and warning that preventing the repetition of such grave international crimes is an urgent need," Kader said.
Kader noted that international law guidance must form the basis for the commitment to prevent the repetition of genocide crimes.
Kader emphasized that the term "genocide," defined as a narrow legal term, should not be used in ways contrary to international law and decisions of competent courts for domestic political purposes.
Referring to the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, Kader stated: "On the other hand, at a time when we are witnessing an increase in racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, discrimination, and intolerance toward the other globally, this convention has never been more important."
Kader pointed out that tools in combating racism and hate speech need to be strengthened. In this context, she drew attention to the importance of accountability in accordance with international law.
"Decisions of international courts regarding the application of the Convention must be respected and implemented. As we have witnessed in Gaza, there should be no impunity for grave violations of international law. Otherwise, the perpetrators will become even more emboldened to continue their atrocities, and our efforts to fulfill the promise of 'never again' will be hindered," Kader said.
Kader noted that the best way to honor genocide victims and survivors is to increase actions to prevent this gravest crime.
Kader recorded that Türkiye reaffirmed its commitment to the Convention and global efforts to turn words into actions.
"The best way to honor victims and survivors is to increase actions to prevent this gravest of crimes. Türkiye reaffirms its commitment to the Convention and global efforts to translate words into action," Kader stated.
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