Perspectives of the Genocide Issue

Abstract

At the international level the genocide theory is used to imply a covert or overt effort by the white races to eliminate or keep down the numbers of the colored races. Within Africa, however, more important problems are related to the balkanization of the continent into small states without reference to real physical or ethnic group boundaries. This has led to national insecurity which many feel would be allayed by increasing their national numbers. Within countries too, the new approach to democracy tends to make it possible for one tribe to be dominant over the other, and this in turn creates insecurity both for the tribe in ascendancy, making it want to maintain its numerical superiority, and for the minor tribe which would like to increase its numbers rapidly. The problem is worsened by very enthusiastic advocacy of population control as the main ingredient of economic advance and unguarded recommendations for methods of fertility limitation which may be completely unacceptable in cultural terms. The lack of real population and family planning experts on the African scene is particularly to blame as is also the disproportionate allocation of funds for family planning and population activities as opposed to overall developmental goals.

In spite of the genocide theory family planning and population programs are advancing in Africa. Progress will be accelerated, however, if such activities are seen as part of overall developmental activities aimed at improving the quality of life of all of the peoples. Success is much more likely if governments and technical assistant personnel make it obvious that family planning is to be undertaken within the context of human rights: respect for the dignity of the individual, and encouragement to individuals, families, and communities in the achievement of their own aspirations.