The failure of the so-called rules-based world order to stop the genocide in Gaza forms the theme of this year’s Genocide Memorial Day.

The promise of “never again” rings hollow as the institutions established to prevent and punish mass atrocities appear increasingly unable—or unwilling—to fulfil their mandates.

If international law cannot be applied fairly, consistently, and accountability remains contingent on geopolitical power rather than universal principles, then the international legal order itself risks becoming impotent.

Institutions established to protect humanity lose their legitimacy when they cannot, or will not, hold powerful states and their allies to the same standards expected of everyone else. The consequence is not merely institutional failure but human suffering.

The International Criminal Court has been widely criticised for the selective application of international justice, while powerful states strip it of any shred of authority when its jurisdiction threatens their own interests or those of their allies.

Meanwhile, the United Nations appears paralysed, unable to enforce its own resolutions or halt atrocities unfolding before the world’s eyes in multiple conflicts and regions.

Genocide Memorial Day is intended to affirm that there should be no hierarchy of genocides: every crime against humanity, whether historical or contemporary, deserves equal remembrance, recognition and accountability.

If the promise of equal justice is to mean anything, if “never again” is to mean anything, the international community must be willing to consider a new global framework, one that is genuinely impartial, places the rights and protection of victims above the geopolitical interests of states, and applies international law, protective mechanisms and accountability without fear, favour or exception.

Building on the success of previous years, the 18th GMD will host a distinguished line-up of academics and activists to reimagine a world where justice is paramount and in which might alone does not equal right.

Genocide Memorial Day was started in 2010 by the Islamic Human Rights Commission to highlight current and past genocides and genocidal activities and try to stop new ones happening in the future.

EVENT DETAILS

GMD – The World After the Rules: Reimagining Global Justice.

WHEN: Sunday, 17 January 2027, from 3pm to 6pm
WHERE: P21 Gallery, 21-27 Chalton Street, NW1 1JD, London
SPEAKERS: Prof. Ramon Grosfoguel, Sandew Hira and others to be confirmed

TICKETS: Sales opening soon

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For more information or comment please contact the Press Office on (+44) 208 904 0222  or (+44) 7958 522196 or email media@ihrc.org
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IHRC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
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