Definition
Mass atrocities consist of extreme violence inflicted on a large scale or in a deliberate manner, particularly on civilians and noncombatants, by State or non-State actors. Mass atrocities encompass the international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and aggression.
Introduction
This entry first explores and defines the concept of mass atrocities in light of the concept’s origins and historical development since the Second World War. It defines the four mass atrocities crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and aggression. Second, the entry examines the relationship between mass atrocities and development. It analyzes the destructive impact of mass atrocities at all levels of development. It considers the extent to which sustainable development can prevent the occurrence of mass atrocities. Considering Sustainable Development Goal 16 on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions, the entry highlights the importance of...
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Khalfaoui, A. (2020). Mass Atrocities: Definition and Relationship with Development. In: Leal Filho, W., Azul, A., Brandli, L., Özuyar, P., Wall, T. (eds) Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71066-2_5-1
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