Micro-Analysis of Victim-Survivors' Stories: Nuancing the Dynamics and Complexities of Sexual Violence During the Genocide Against the Tutsi

The year 2024 marked the thirtieth anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi. The genocide was characterized by widespread and brutal use of sexual violence, resulting in long-lasting and multifaceted effects on victim-survivors and their communities. While the representation of sexual violence in Rwandan public discourse has often been limited, advocacy groups and researchers have documented numerous testimonies to ensure the full scope of such violence is acknowledged. Despite these efforts, many relational dynamics and complexities remain underexplored. This article presents the survival stories of two victim-survivors, interviewed in Rwanda in 2015/2016. A micro-analysis of these individual narratives enhances our understanding of the genocide and its aftermath by providing nuanced insights into the prevalence and forms of sexual violence, as well as the relational dynamics that shaped victim-survivors’ experiences. The micro-analysis also expands knowledge of agency and the choices made by victim-survivors during and after the genocide, as well as the profound relational harm sexual violence caused to Rwandan social networks. Furthermore, this article examines the role of apologies and forgiveness in addressing this harm and offers insights into ongoing healing needs for both victim-survivors and Rwandan society. These findings contribute to broader scholarly and policy discussions on sexual violence and its long-term consequences.

Journal of Genocide Research

Journal of Genocide Research

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1469-9494

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