Restorative Justice and Post-Genocide Reconciliation: Ethical Implications and Community Healing in Rwanda

Authors

  • Jonas Musengimana Protestant University of Rwanda

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26034/fr.jehe.2024.6897

Keywords:

Rwanda, community healing, justice, peace process, post-war care, genocide, restorative justice, Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Abstract

This paper explores the role of restorative justice in post-genocide reconciliation in Rwanda, focusing on its ethical implications and impact on community healing. Following the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda faced the challenge of addressing survivors' trauma, fostering national unity, and reconciling a divided society. Key initiatives, including the Gacaca court system, emphasized dialogue, accountability, and forgiveness to promote healing. Using restorative justice and social reconstruction theories as its conceptual frameworks, this study examines how restorative justice fosters trust, dignity, and relationship restoration, while addressing ethical challenges. Also, through a desk review of existing literature, reports, and case studies, this study synthesizes key findings on the effectiveness of restorative justice.

Author Biography

Jonas Musengimana, Protestant University of Rwanda

Rev. Jonas Musengimana is a dedicated pastor in the Presbyterian Church and a PhD student specializing in the history of Christianity. He serves as a lecturer of applied Christian ethics at the Protestant University of Rwanda. He holds a Master’s degree in Ethics and Leadership from the Protestant University of Rwanda, a Master’s degree in Public Health from Kampala University, and has completed a professional course in Improving Global Health Equity from Harvard University (online).
With a strong academic focus, Rev. Musengimana is researching John Calvin's leadership model and its historical contribution to church self-sufficiency, particularly in the context of the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda. His broader interests include Restorative justice, eco-theology, sustainable development, and the ethical implications of digitalization in education. Actively involved in community and academic discussions, he contributes to advancing theological reflections and practical applications in African societies

Email: jmusenge@gmail.com

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Published

2025-01-08

How to Cite

Musengimana, J. (2025). Restorative Justice and Post-Genocide Reconciliation: Ethical Implications and Community Healing in Rwanda. Journal of Ethics in Higher Education, (5), 241–261. https://doi.org/10.26034/fr.jehe.2024.6897

Issue

No. 5 (2024): Ethics in Open and Distance Education

Section

Non-thematic Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2024 Jonas Musengimana

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