Rwanda: Law No. 59/2018 on the Crime of Genocide Ideology and Related Crimes entered into force

On 25 September 2018, Law No. 59/2018 on the Crime of Genocide Ideology and Related Crimes entered into force after its publication in the official gazette. The law criminalises a range of acts, including the denial, minimisation, or justification of genocide, as well as the destruction of evidence, desecration of memorial sites, and violence against survivors. It imposes penalties, such as imprisonment ranging from 5 to 15 years and fines up to RWF 2 million, depending on the severity of the offence. Additionally, the law holds institutions and organisations accountable for such crimes, with potential consequences including fines, dissolution, or prohibition of operations.