Remembering, Learning, and Applying: Realizing ‘Never Again’ as the Essential Lesson of the Holocaust

Some four generations after the Holocaust, and 75 years after adoption of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, it is striking that there appear an increasing number of genocides or their risk in the world today. Despite abundant information, evolved norms with binding legal standards, and notwithstanding great efforts, has the world begun to forget, poorly learned or simply failed to apply the lessons of the Holocaust? What needs to be done to take seriously and practically the promise of Never Again? Understanding and addressing the risks demands open eyes and determined action, making the most of International Law and international mobilization as a matter or urgency. Professor Packer will set out a programme to meet the challenge.

John Packer is a Neuberger-Jesin Professor of International Conflict Resolution, Faculty of Law, and Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa. Before taking up his position at the University of Ottawa in 2014, John was the Constitutions and Process Design Expert for the UN’s Standby Team of Mediation Experts, advising in numerous peace processes and political transitions around the world, focusing on conflict prevention and resolution, diversity management, constitutional and legal reform, and the protection of human rights including minorities. In a 30-year career, John has contributed to processes in over fifty countries and has advised numerous inter-governmental organisations, governments, communities and other actors.

Organized by the Center for Holocaust & Genocide Studies. Presented with the Human Rights Center and Human Rights Program.