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Rwanda: From Genocide to Precarious Peace
A sobering study of the troubled African nation, both pre- and post-genocide, and its uncertain future
The brutal civil war between Hutu and Tutsi factions in Rwanda ended in 1994 when the Rwandan Patriotic Front came to power and embarked on an ambitious social, political, and economic project to remake the devastated central-east African nation. Susan Thomson, who witnessed the hostilities firsthand, has written a provocative modern history of the country, its rulers, and its people, covering the years prior to, during, and following the genocidal conflict. Thomson’s hard-hitting analysis explores the key political events that led to the ascendance of the Rwandan Patriotic Front and its leader, President Paul Kagame. This important and controversial study examines the country’s transition from war to reconciliation from the perspective of ordinary Rwandan citizens, Tutsi and Hutu alike, and raises serious questions about the stability of the current peace, the methods and motivations of the ruling regime and its troubling ties to the past, and the likelihood of a genocide-free future.
The brutal civil war between Hutu and Tutsi factions in Rwanda ended in 1994 when the Rwandan Patriotic Front came to power and embarked on an ambitious social, political, and economic project to remake the devastated central-east African nation. Susan Thomson, who witnessed the hostilities firsthand, has written a provocative modern history of the country, its rulers, and its people, covering the years prior to, during, and following the genocidal conflict. Thomson’s hard-hitting analysis explores the key political events that led to the ascendance of the Rwandan Patriotic Front and its leader, President Paul Kagame. This important and controversial study examines the country’s transition from war to reconciliation from the perspective of ordinary Rwandan citizens, Tutsi and Hutu alike, and raises serious questions about the stability of the current peace, the methods and motivations of the ruling regime and its troubling ties to the past, and the likelihood of a genocide-free future.
344 pages, Hardcover
Published April 24, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
August 30, 2023
I was 14 years old when the Rwandan genocide took over the world stage and filled it with horror. Now I'm living in England where the government has a plan to send refugees to Rwanda claiming that it is a safe third country. I realized I know nothing about Rwanda, and was curious what kind of place the refugees would be sent if this policy is allowed to play out. This book fills in the background of what led to the genocide, because of course it didn't really come out of nowhere as I and probably most other Westerners thought at the time. It also discusses the current regime and political structure since the genocide. The book is enlightening; anyone who wants to understand what it would mean to send refugees to Rwanda should read it or something similar before forming an opinion.
December 30, 2018
Modern Rwanda enjoys a rather positive image internationally. The Rwandan parliament holds the world record for women in parliament, and visitors remark that the capital city's streets are clean and tree-lined. In stark contrast to its dark past, modern Rwanda is hailed by some as one of the most efficient and well-organised countries in Sub-saharan Africa.
Susan Thomson makes it clear from the first page on that the reality is different: the majority of Rwandans eke out a living on the country side and do not benefit from the progress; for the less than 20% of the population who live in Kigali, the good standard of living comes at the price of unconditional support for the ruling party.
To give everything its historical background, Thomson then takes us back and rolls out the history from precolonial times until today. According to the image that the ruling party RFP wants to impose, precolonial times were marked by peace and ethnic unity. In reality, the landed Tutsi minority exploited the landless Hutu majority. These societal givens led to a historical pattern of oppression and discontent that again and again erupted in violent episodes. The problem in the modern age is that, instead of trying to create a more just society, the RFP perpetuates the same ancient oppressive structures that ultimately caused the 1994 genocide.
Instead of trying to trying to help society overcome the painful memories, the RFP instrumentalises history. Political debate and dissent are not tolerated, and the government equates any kind of criticism of itself to genocide denial. Through a tight network of national party hierarchies as well as a large intelligence service, they exert strict control over political expression in every layer of society. It is practically impossible to hold down almost any job without toeing the party line. This pervasive interference with people's lives culminates in long prison sentences for political dissidents or even contract murders.
The book goes into a lot of detail, as a decent academic work should, but overall keeps a good pace and is often an absorbing read.
Susan Thomson makes it clear from the first page on that the reality is different: the majority of Rwandans eke out a living on the country side and do not benefit from the progress; for the less than 20% of the population who live in Kigali, the good standard of living comes at the price of unconditional support for the ruling party.
To give everything its historical background, Thomson then takes us back and rolls out the history from precolonial times until today. According to the image that the ruling party RFP wants to impose, precolonial times were marked by peace and ethnic unity. In reality, the landed Tutsi minority exploited the landless Hutu majority. These societal givens led to a historical pattern of oppression and discontent that again and again erupted in violent episodes. The problem in the modern age is that, instead of trying to create a more just society, the RFP perpetuates the same ancient oppressive structures that ultimately caused the 1994 genocide.
Instead of trying to trying to help society overcome the painful memories, the RFP instrumentalises history. Political debate and dissent are not tolerated, and the government equates any kind of criticism of itself to genocide denial. Through a tight network of national party hierarchies as well as a large intelligence service, they exert strict control over political expression in every layer of society. It is practically impossible to hold down almost any job without toeing the party line. This pervasive interference with people's lives culminates in long prison sentences for political dissidents or even contract murders.
The book goes into a lot of detail, as a decent academic work should, but overall keeps a good pace and is often an absorbing read.
October 29, 2018
"But the image of Rwanda he promotes internationally, the image of a country of peace and prosperity, where opportunities are there for the taking, is in fact an image that is a reality only for the privileged few." This statement is the core of the book, as author Susan Thomas relays the challenges faced by Rwandans living in poverty and those who are not on the same side as the current government in power.
As a communications officer at an international aid organization and a former political science major, I am always keen to learn more about the landscape and political climate of the countries where the aid organization I work at is active. Since Rwanda is one of the many countries I share about, I knew I had to read this book. Recently, a group of youth who travelled to Rwanda on a learning trip shared with me how they appreciated the act of umuganda. However, it was interesting to hear Thomson's academic perspective on the origins of this day of community service and the implications it has on Rwandans.
While I found this book to be quite long and in some cases a bit repetitive, it's very thorough, and is an ideal read for anyone looking to learn about the government of Rwanda, the current state of interactions between Tutsi and Hutus living in the country and the role of foreign aid and tourism.
What I appreciated most is Thomson's use of both Tutsi and Hutu voices. The accounts from both sides aren't simply of victim and perpetrator, but also of youth growing up with a dark shadow of history looming over their every action and decision.
Overall, I was impressed with Thomson's in-depth research on the topic and the thorough analysis she provides from pre-genocide to the current state of Rwanda.
**Disclaimer: I received a PDF of the book from the author via Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.**
As a communications officer at an international aid organization and a former political science major, I am always keen to learn more about the landscape and political climate of the countries where the aid organization I work at is active. Since Rwanda is one of the many countries I share about, I knew I had to read this book. Recently, a group of youth who travelled to Rwanda on a learning trip shared with me how they appreciated the act of umuganda. However, it was interesting to hear Thomson's academic perspective on the origins of this day of community service and the implications it has on Rwandans.
While I found this book to be quite long and in some cases a bit repetitive, it's very thorough, and is an ideal read for anyone looking to learn about the government of Rwanda, the current state of interactions between Tutsi and Hutus living in the country and the role of foreign aid and tourism.
What I appreciated most is Thomson's use of both Tutsi and Hutu voices. The accounts from both sides aren't simply of victim and perpetrator, but also of youth growing up with a dark shadow of history looming over their every action and decision.
Overall, I was impressed with Thomson's in-depth research on the topic and the thorough analysis she provides from pre-genocide to the current state of Rwanda.
**Disclaimer: I received a PDF of the book from the author via Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.**
January 16, 2019
I read this non fiction book through @BookTasters
"Throughout Rwandan history, winner-take-all politics has been culturally rooted in a system of dominance of the ruling group over the rest of society"
This is a honest from the ground overview of the conflict in Rwanda-a nation ravaged by years of conflict, civil war and genocide and the mirage of peace and development of a modern nation it presents today. The author neither presents the official nor a a one sided story but tries to show both sides of the conflict from the view of the perpetrators and the victims, what circumstances led to such horrific events She not only talks about the past but also holds accountable the present fragile peace it presents today and how everyone the politicians, the international community and the powerful countries failed the common Rwandans
"Then and now, the majority of Rwandans are subject to the self-serving decisions of political elites—whether Tutsi or Hutu"
One of the best non fiction books i've read A must read
February 5, 2019
Susan Thomson's Rwanda: From Genocide to Precarious Peace is gripping, illuminating insight into the African country. Thomson begins at the 1994 genocide and looks at the causes and consequences of that horrific event, as well as how the RPF (led by current Rwandan President Paul Kagame) rose to power and consolidated their position.
I must confess: I know next to nothing about Rwanda, apart from the genocide and the fact that women make up more than 60% of Parliament. Despite my ignorance however, I found Thomson's book to be very accessible. She explains complex political and socio-economic factors, along with historical events, with great clarity and conciseness. The book is straight to the point without unnecessary additions which might confuse or obfuscate Thomson's main goal in writing Rwanda. The reader is given understanding of a different country without condescension, or indeed a stack of info-dumping to wade through. She has also provided maps, an index of acronyms, and notes to help guide the reader through this journey into Rwanda, both past and present. There are explanation of proverbs or words and phrases which have been translated which helps give the reader greater insight to Rwandan culture.
The highlight for me was when Thomson spoke to Rwandans about their experiences, both during and post-genocide. These snippets are fascinating; the statistics involving the number of people killed or displaced because of the genocide (and the terrifying thought that subsequent human rights abuses by the RPF have been downplayed or dismissed) are shocking, yet it is the individuals' narratives that hit me the most. Perhaps because you see the humans behind the numbers; you see their own perspectives on what happened and continues to happen. A lot of the people interviewed by Thomson were ordinary citizens who were/are simply trying to get on with their lives. There were also interviews with politicians and University professors that helped add context but it was the clips of civilians that stayed with me now the book is over.
Thomson does an excellent job of discussing the politics of Rwanda without forcing her own opinion on to the reader. This is especially true in the latter half of the book which deals with RPF government, which has repeatedly attempted to stop critiques of its' actions and policies from both at home and abroad. Thomson reveals the major issues within the government; how their policies benefit the elite few yet making no improvements to the vast majority of the population. How they effectively stifle free speech and cow their political opponents into submission. All of this is written in a very matter-of-fact way; this is what is happening. Thomson is presenting you with facts about the current government and doesn't use emotive language to sway the reader; the problems are so great they don't need dramatic word choice and imagery.
I came away from Rwanda feeling more knowledgeable about the country and its history and politics; so much so I'm tempted to read other books about the subject. It is a great introduction if, like me, you know nothing about Rwanda; Thomson's writing style is clear and concise whilst providing information, with extra material such as maps and graphs to highlight the information being presented.
I must confess: I know next to nothing about Rwanda, apart from the genocide and the fact that women make up more than 60% of Parliament. Despite my ignorance however, I found Thomson's book to be very accessible. She explains complex political and socio-economic factors, along with historical events, with great clarity and conciseness. The book is straight to the point without unnecessary additions which might confuse or obfuscate Thomson's main goal in writing Rwanda. The reader is given understanding of a different country without condescension, or indeed a stack of info-dumping to wade through. She has also provided maps, an index of acronyms, and notes to help guide the reader through this journey into Rwanda, both past and present. There are explanation of proverbs or words and phrases which have been translated which helps give the reader greater insight to Rwandan culture.
The highlight for me was when Thomson spoke to Rwandans about their experiences, both during and post-genocide. These snippets are fascinating; the statistics involving the number of people killed or displaced because of the genocide (and the terrifying thought that subsequent human rights abuses by the RPF have been downplayed or dismissed) are shocking, yet it is the individuals' narratives that hit me the most. Perhaps because you see the humans behind the numbers; you see their own perspectives on what happened and continues to happen. A lot of the people interviewed by Thomson were ordinary citizens who were/are simply trying to get on with their lives. There were also interviews with politicians and University professors that helped add context but it was the clips of civilians that stayed with me now the book is over.
Thomson does an excellent job of discussing the politics of Rwanda without forcing her own opinion on to the reader. This is especially true in the latter half of the book which deals with RPF government, which has repeatedly attempted to stop critiques of its' actions and policies from both at home and abroad. Thomson reveals the major issues within the government; how their policies benefit the elite few yet making no improvements to the vast majority of the population. How they effectively stifle free speech and cow their political opponents into submission. All of this is written in a very matter-of-fact way; this is what is happening. Thomson is presenting you with facts about the current government and doesn't use emotive language to sway the reader; the problems are so great they don't need dramatic word choice and imagery.
I came away from Rwanda feeling more knowledgeable about the country and its history and politics; so much so I'm tempted to read other books about the subject. It is a great introduction if, like me, you know nothing about Rwanda; Thomson's writing style is clear and concise whilst providing information, with extra material such as maps and graphs to highlight the information being presented.
December 25, 2023
I recieved this book as a Xmas gift 3 years ago, 3 years later I have finally got round to reading it. My only previous experiance with Rwanda is from 'We wish to infrom you that tomorrow we will be killed with our families'. The very first thing I noticed with this book is the very critical stance it had of the RPF, wheras from what I can remember Gourevitch seemed to have a more positive view on them (although he did of course mention the massacres in Zaire).
The first few chapters were absolute 5 stars, and were my favourite parts of the book. My only criticism being that I thought it very starnge that Chapter one was about the genocide, 2 the leadup to the genocide, and 3 the aftermath. Surely it would be much more simple to have these in chronoligical order? Regardless, this is a small criticism.
After reviewing the genocide, we were to find out the relentless torrent of abuses Kagame and his RPF have carried out in the name of security, ethnic harmony and economic development, and how far they have gone to shut down any dissenting voices. I fond this book extremely interesting in the way that it offered an insight into the RPF government, who still rules today (2023). Shockingly, my government (UK) is planning to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, and is touting this country to our public as a 'safe nation'. Safe it may be, because anybody is simply too scared to talk out.
Although I really enjoyed this book, I found the second part harder going. The sheer volume and constant abuse after abuse and opressiom after opression on the people of Rwanda became a bit tiresome to read, as I only have a very limited interest in the country, and therefor did not need such an in depth analysis, so because of this, I certainly lost interest in tbe second half of the book.
Saying that, I still believe this book deserves 4*, especially because of its fantastiv first few chapters. And if you had any sort of serious interest in Rwanda today, or the post genocide politics, this is definately a must read book. I feel I now have a much better understanding of Rwanda, a little known country, and current news affairs (M23 Rebels which have frequently been reported on Al Jazeera these last years) begins to make a little more sense now when given historical context. Good book.
The first few chapters were absolute 5 stars, and were my favourite parts of the book. My only criticism being that I thought it very starnge that Chapter one was about the genocide, 2 the leadup to the genocide, and 3 the aftermath. Surely it would be much more simple to have these in chronoligical order? Regardless, this is a small criticism.
After reviewing the genocide, we were to find out the relentless torrent of abuses Kagame and his RPF have carried out in the name of security, ethnic harmony and economic development, and how far they have gone to shut down any dissenting voices. I fond this book extremely interesting in the way that it offered an insight into the RPF government, who still rules today (2023). Shockingly, my government (UK) is planning to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, and is touting this country to our public as a 'safe nation'. Safe it may be, because anybody is simply too scared to talk out.
Although I really enjoyed this book, I found the second part harder going. The sheer volume and constant abuse after abuse and opressiom after opression on the people of Rwanda became a bit tiresome to read, as I only have a very limited interest in the country, and therefor did not need such an in depth analysis, so because of this, I certainly lost interest in tbe second half of the book.
Saying that, I still believe this book deserves 4*, especially because of its fantastiv first few chapters. And if you had any sort of serious interest in Rwanda today, or the post genocide politics, this is definately a must read book. I feel I now have a much better understanding of Rwanda, a little known country, and current news affairs (M23 Rebels which have frequently been reported on Al Jazeera these last years) begins to make a little more sense now when given historical context. Good book.
October 20, 2018
I first came across Susan Thomson's work through her previous book Whispering Truth to Power: Everyday Resistance to Reconciliation in Post-genocide Rwanda. As someone who spent a semester studying abroad in Rwanda, I was impressed by Thomson's deep respect for rural Rwandans, her knowledge of Kinyarwanda, and her deviation from a state-sanctioned canon that views reconciliation and the current president as the pinnacles of success. In this new title, Rwanda: From Genocide to Precarious Peace, Thomson provides a nuanced, insightful overview of pre-colonial history, the 1994 genocide, and the present stakeholders in the country, including President Kagame's current surveillance state. The book refreshed my memory on a lot of history leading up to the 1994 genocide, affirmed some of my biggest fears about the country, and clarified information I had only guessed was happening. Incredibly grateful for this book.
December 21, 2024
It was alright, the author kept repeating evidence and got very repetitive
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews