The flight from Rwanda in 1994: what were (are) the priorities?

ABSTRACT

EXTENT OF THE CATASTROPHE More than 2 million refugees, 2-3 million displaced persons internally, thousands of unaccompanied children, and a total number of reported fatalities of 48,347 in Goma, Zaire. PRIORITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL RELIEF International relief support started with coordination provided by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). In the first phase, availability of potable water was the highest priority. Current priorities are to intensify repatriation of Rwandan refugees under conditions that will guarantee human rights and allow for dignified daily living. CONCLUSIONS: Education beginning at childhood, to overcome conflicts, social inequality, and overpopulation should be promoted by assisting governments, instead of pursuing policies aimed largely at forwarding their own national interests.