Conclusion: Genocide Prevention Is Still Possible

This chapter looks at the role individuals can play in genocide prevention when they claim citizenship in a bystander or rescuer nation. These nations have openly chosen to stand apart from the violence of genocide. The individual who would take steps to prevent genocide can operate within these nations to assist with the prevention process. Together they may create a constructive collaboration for good. This begins with watchfulness and righteous indignation. Righteous indignation is best expressed when the national response is not vulnerable to ad hominem attacks that rightly point to inconsistencies and hypocrisies. When evidence appears that the initial stages of genocide are happening, just-in-time responses are needed. The individual can promote a sense of righteous indignation toward the wrongdoing of full-blown genocide and toward behaviors supporting the stages of genocide. Finally, the individual can take a proactive response toward the prevention of genocide by supporting national rescue efforts and NGOs engaged in the prevention or cessation of genocide.