RECOGNITION OF GENOCIDE AS A FORM OF MORAL REPAIR

Abstract

The article offers a critical appraisal of the forms of reparation applicable to the crime of genocide examining their legal foundation, practical implementation and normative significance within international law. Although genocide is recognized as the ―crime of crimes‖, the reparation regime addressing its harm remains fragmented and inconsistently applied drawing on international jurisprudence, human right mechanism, and transitional justice practice, in order to address the particular collective and intergenerational effects of genocide, the article adopts a doctrinal approach method to discuss important kinds of reparation, restitution, compensation, rehabilitation, satisfaction, and guarantees of non-repetition. Particular attention is given to challenges such as the destruction of the group identity, loss of cultural heritage, mass displacement, and the difficulty of quantifying collective harm. The paper argues that conventional individual – centric models of reparation are insufficient for genocide and that more holistic, group-base, and culturally grounded approaches are required. The article further highlights the importance of survivor participation, symbolic and memorial measures, and institutional reforms in achieving meaningful redress. Ultimately, it recommends that a coherent victim-centre framework – integrating both material and symbolic dimensions – its essential to address the profound moral and social ruptures caused by genocide and to strengthen long-term prospects for justice and reconciliation.