The Green Party is the first New Zealand political party to call for the remembrance of the 100th anniversary of the genocide of the 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman government.
“The 100th anniversary of the Armenian genocide is an opportunity to start real and significant reconciliation between Armenia and Turkey,” said Green Party global affairs spokesperson Dr Kennedy Graham.
“The Green Party supports the European Parliament’s call for a proposal to establish an ‘International Remembrance Day for Genocides’.
“New Zealand can take the lead and help push for a remembrance day for genocide victims using our position on the United Nations Security Council.
“We should also be active in the Council in developing a global warning and prevention mechanism specifically for potential genocides. UNESCO may have a role to play in cooperation with the Council.
“A day to remember the victims of genocide, including those in Germany, Indonesia, Cambodia, Iraq and Rwanda, will help with closing wounds and moving forward.
“I hope our government will be brave enough to take the step of recognising the Armenian genocide as well as other genocides,” said Dr Graham.
