Start of Main Content

Education Resources on Genocide and Mass Atrocities

Introduction to Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention

This section of resources provides an introduction to genocide and mass atrocity prevention, including definitions of mass atrocity crimes and the legal and historical foundations of “genocide.”

  • “Genocide” is a very specific term, referring to violent crimes committed against groups with the intent to destroy the existence of the group. This resource explains where the word "genocide" comes from and the list of actions that define this crime.

  • This timeline notes the major conceptual and legal advances in the development of the term "genocide." It does not detail all cases which might be considered genocides.

  • This textbook explores research and policy questions at the heart of efforts to prevent genocide and mass atrocities. It is geared toward educators, students, practitioners, and policymakers seeking an introduction to key issues.

  • This lesson plan outlines the four types of mass atrocity crimes, features victim perspectives, and explains why preventing mass atrocities is important. Resources include a facilitator guide, slides, handout, and video.

(Back to top)

Burma’s Path to Genocide Exhibition

This online exhibition explores how the Rohingya, a religious and ethnic minority in Burma, went from being citizens to outsiders—and became the targets of a sustained campaign of genocide. Rohingya are still at risk of genocide today.

  • By exploring the online exhibition Burma’s Path to Genocide, students learn how government policies and the spread of hate speech led to the genocide of the Rohingya.

  • These resources are designed to assist educators when teaching about the Burma’s Path to Genocide exhibition, including lesson plans, worksheets, and printable materials.

(Back to top)

Country Case Studies

This section of resources includes information on historical cases of genocide and other atrocities, places where mass atrocities are currently underway or communities are under threat, and areas where early warning signs call for concern and preventive action.

  • These case studies are areas of focus for the Simon-Skjodt Center. Resources include an overview of mass atrocities in each country, reports, and the Museum’s recent analysis.

  • Country Fact Sheets

    These fact sheets briefly outline the current situation in each country, why the Museum is concerned, and what you can do. Fact sheets are available for Burma, Cameroon, China, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine.

  • In the Simon-Skjodt Center’s Preventing Genocide blog, find information about recent reports, recaps of events held by the Center, and more analysis from our staff and fellows.

(Back to top)

Survivor and Eyewitness Testimony

Hear from individuals who have experienced or witnessed genocide and mass atrocities. This section includes written stories, video testimony, and a documentary film.

(Back to top)

Early Warning 

Genocide and mass atrocities are preceded by a range of early warning signs that, if detected, can give governments and institutions a chance to intervene before atrocities are committed. This section of resources focus on warning signs and opportunities to prevent mass atrocities.

  • Our Early Warning Project uses state-of-the-art research methods to identify countries at risk for mass atrocities. Resources include our annual risk list, country-specific analysis, crowd-forecasting results, and our data and methodology.

  • While each genocide is unique, in most places where genocide occurs, there are common risk factors and warning signs. This resource outlines some of the most common factors.

  • This lesson plan outlines risk factors, warning signs, and triggers for mass atrocities. It also provides an introduction to the Holocaust through a mass atrocity prevention lens. Resources include a facilitator guide, slides, a handout, and a video.

(Back to top)

Justice and Accountability