United Nations Security Council resolution 955 (1994) was adopted on November 8, 1994, in response to the situation in Rwanda during the Rwandan genocide. The resolution aimed to establish the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) to prosecute individuals responsible for genocide and other serious violations of international humanitarian law in Rwanda.
Key provisions of resolution 955 included:
- Establishment of the ICTR: The resolution established the ICTR as a temporary tribunal to prosecute persons responsible for genocide and other serious violations of international humanitarian law in Rwanda between January 1 and December 31, 1994.
- Jurisdiction and Cooperation: The resolution granted the ICTR jurisdiction over the crimes committed during the Rwandan genocide and called upon all states to cooperate with and assist the tribunal in its investigations and prosecutions.
- Tribunal Composition: The resolution determined the composition of the ICTR, including the appointment of judges, the prosecutor, and other necessary personnel. It emphasized the need for the tribunal to have balanced representation of both genders.
- Appeals Chamber: The resolution provided for the establishment of an Appeals Chamber within the ICTR to hear appeals against the decisions of the tribunal.
- Request for Reports: The resolution requested the Secretary-General of the United Nations to submit reports periodically to the Security Council on the progress of the ICTR’s work.
- Support for Peace Process: The resolution expressed the Security Council’s support for the peace process in Rwanda and urged all parties involved to work towards national reconciliation and a political settlement.
Resolution 955 was a significant step in addressing the grave crimes committed during the Rwandan genocide and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The ICTR played a crucial role in prosecuting those responsible and contributing to justice and reconciliation efforts in Rwanda.