Politics Quote by Philip Gourevitch
““As far as the political, military, and economic interests of the world’s powers go, (Rwanda) might as well be Mars. In fact, Mars is probably of greater strategic concern. But Rwanda, unlike Mars, is populated by human beings, and when Rwanda had a genocide, the world’s powers left Rwanda to it.””
About This Quote
The quote highlights that global powers prioritize strategic interests over humanitarian crises, treating Rwanda as insignificant despite its human suffering.
In simple terms: World powers ignore Rwanda’s genocide because it lacks strategic value.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act on human crises regardless of strategic importance.
Themes
politics
humanitarianism
global power
neglect
genocide
Mood
critical
somber
reflective
Type
political
ethical
observational
When to use this quote
- international diplomacy
- human rights advocacy
- media coverage
- policy making
Key Concepts
realpolitik
moral responsibility
strategic calculus
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies prioritize human lives over strategic gains?
- What mechanisms can hold powers accountable for neglect?
A Different Perspective
Strategic interests often outweigh moral obligations, leading to inaction.
![“If, in the face of genocide, governments fear placing soldiers at risk, he [UN General Romeo Dallaire] said, "then don't send soldiers, send Boy Scouts" - which is basically what the world did in the refugee camps. Dallaire was in uniform when he faced the camera; his graying hair was closely…” quote by Philip Gourevitch](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c79/philip-gourevitch-17484_boy-scout_if-in-the-face-of-genocide-governments-f_2577034.jpg)
![“Just as a state's police swear to prevent and punish murder, so the signers of the Genocide Convention [in 1948] swore to police a brave new world order. The rhetoric of moral utopia is a peculiar response to genocide. But those were heady days, just after the trials at Nuremberg, when the full…” quote by Philip Gourevitch](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/41e/philip-gourevitch-17484_brave-new-world_just-as-a-state-s-police-swear-to-preven_403389.jpg)
