Genocide and Mass Atrocities in Asia ― Legacies and Prevention

The twentieth century has been labelled the ‘century of genocide’, and according to estimates, more than 250 million civilians were victims of genocide and mass atrocities during this period. This book provides one of the first regional perspectives on mass atrocities in Asia, by exploring the issue through two central themes.

Bringing together experts in genocide studies and area specialists, the book looks at the legacy of past genocides and mass atrocities, with case studies on East Timor, Cambodia and Indonesia. It explores the enduring legacies of trauma and societal divisions, the complex and continuing impacts of past mass violence, and the role of transitional justice in the aftermath of mass atrocities in Asia. Understanding these complex legacies is crucial for the region to build a future that acknowledges the past. The book goes on to consider the prospects and challenges for preventing future mass atrocities in Asia, and globally. It discusses both regional and global factors that may impact on preventing future mass atrocities in Asia, and highlights the value of a regional perspective in mass atrocity prevention.

Providing a detailed examination of genocide and mass atrocities through the themes of legacies and prevention, the book is an important contribution to Asian Studies and Security Studies.

Deborah Mayersen is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Social Transformation Research, University of Wollongong, Australia. Her research focuses on the area of comparative genocide studies, including the Armenian, Cambodia and Rwandan genocides.

Annie Pohlman is Lecturer in Indonesian Studies at the University of Queensland, Australia. Her research interests include Indonesian history and politics, genocide and mass atrocities in Southeast Asia, gendered experiences of violence and torture.