Prevent Genocide

Early, decisive action can prevent escalation of turmoil into violence and violence into something much worse. While military options should be avoided whenever possible, U.S. leaders must demonstrate the political courage to act decisively when sanctions and other threats do not stop a government’s attacks on its own people.

Political will alone is not enough to prevent deliberate violence against civilians. Despite its commitment to end genocide, the United States Government has often failed to protect civilians from atrocities such as those in Rwanda, southern Sudan and Darfur. Federal legislation is critical to ensure that the United States prioritizes genocide and mass atrocity prevention and is prepared and equipped with the right tools, structures and resources to act when crises arise.

To address this shortfall, Congress will soon consider legislation to improve early warning systems, reinforce cooperation between government agencies, and authorize flexible funding that enables a timely civilian response.