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Home > Open Access Journals > JSS > Vol. 15 > No. 3 (2022)

 

Author Biography

Jonathan R. Beloff, PhD, is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at King’s College London. His research focuses on the regional politics and security of the African Great Lakes. He has published a book, Rwandan foreign policy titled, Foreign Policy in Post-Genocide Rwanda: Elite Perceptions of Global Engagement, as well as several academic journal articles, book chapters, book reviews and editorials on issues facing Central Africa. Since 2008, his travels to the region have led him to work and consult with numerous Rwandan and international government officials. Within these periods of foreign residence, with particular reference to his multiple extended stays in Rwanda, he developed unique skills to engage and consult with a range of different foreign officials as well as Rwandan policymakers in formulating public policy.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5038/1944-0472.15.3.1999

Subject Area Keywords

Africa, Diplomacy, Foreign policy, Security policy, Terrorism / counterterrorism

Abstract

The 2020 arrest and subsequent trial of Paul Rusesabagina fostered controversy about Rwanda’s human rights record and the political dominance of President Paul Kagame against oppositional voices. Despite human rights organizations and even the European Union condemning the arrest and questioning the ability for him to receive a fair trial, Rwandans remain resolute in their desire to seek justice against Rusesabagina. He is best known as the African version of Oscar Schindler because of the 2004 movie, Hotel Rwanda. However, the historical narrative of Rusesabagina’s heroism is questioned within Rwanda. Additionally, he is accused of forming ties to numerous terrorist groups which committed deadly attacks in Rwanda. This article examines Rusesabagina’s role during and after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the impact of his arrest and trial on Rwanda’s foreign relations.

Disclaimer

The author has no financial interest or benefits from the application of this research.

Acknowledgements

I wish to thank Dr Jastinder Kaur for her valuable feedback on this article.

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