Intergenerational dialogue: Rwanda’s diaspora in Europe unite around memory and resilience

Among the speakers, Frank Kayitare, representing Interpeace, emphasized the importance of addressing legacies of the past with clarity and inclusiveness in order to reinforce community cohesion and resilience.

Speaking before an audience of youth and adults from various European countries, he highlighted the complexity surrounding the transmission of genocide legacies, such as trauma and hate ideology.

In his remarks, he explained that the concept of the intergenerational transmission of genocide legacies reflects a broad and often invisible reality.

According to him, what passes from one generation to the next can take multiple forms, ranging from trauma and silence to guilt, shame, and mistrust. These legacies, he noted, are transmitted both consciously and unconsciously, shaping individual and collective trajectories.

In response to this reality, Interpeace prioritizes the creation of safe spaces that foster dialogue between generations. Such forums enable participants to share their experiences, listen to others, and build mutual understanding in an environment grounded in respect and trust.

For the organizers, this approach represents a key pathway toward preventing memory divides and encouraging a more reconciled engagement with history.

Beyond the formal interventions, the event was enriched by personal testimonies, informal discussions, and cultural moments that strengthened the sense of belonging to a community shaped by diverse journeys yet united by shared memory.

Several participants welcomed an initiative that offers younger generations an opportunity to ask questions, engage with different narratives, and participate in a constructive process of transmission.

Speaking before an audience of youth and adults from various European countries, Kayitare highlighted the complexity surrounding the transmission of genocide legacies, such as trauma and hate ideology.
Frank Kayitare, representing Interpeace, was among speakers.

karirima@igihe.com

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