Understanding Genocide: The UN Convention on Genocide

Understanding Genocide: The UN Convention on Genocide
Wednesday, August 14 at 12pm PT/3pm ET

What is a genocide, and how do we understand it in a post-Holocaust era? Join distinguished scholar in Holocaust and Genocide Studies Michael Berenbaum for an in-depth 3-part series where we will examine its historical origins, legal definitions, and instances of genocide in the post-Holocaust era.In this session we will explore the pioneering work of Raphael Lemkin, the Polish-Jewish lawyer who coined the term “genocide.”

In this session, we will analyze the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, adopted in 1948. The discussion will focus on the legal framework established by the convention, its definitions and provisions, and the challenges associated with its implementation and enforcement. This session will also address the political and diplomatic processes that led to the adoption of the convention and its impact on international law.

This is part 2 of the 3-part series.

Michael Berenbaum is a Professor of Jewish Studies and Director of the Sigi Ziering Institute at the American Jewish University. He is a writer, a scholar and a creator of Museums. His work has been recognized by the Emmys and Academy Awards.