Rwanda's Strategic Humanitarianism: Lessons From a Janus-faced State

Abstract

The post-genocide Rwandan government is simultaneously characterized as heroes in regional peacekeeping operations and violent criminals in the Democratic Republic of Congo. An analysis of the Kagame regime?s reasons for contributing to African peace operations reconciles these contradictory images. Following the logic of extraversion, the Rwandan government?s peacekeeping activities are an instrument for mollifying Western donors without terminating interference in the Congo. Peacekeeping showcases a strategic manipulation of international norms rather than a commitment to humanitarianism. The strategy has proven successful for the Rwandan government, improving the regime?s diplomatic standing and increasing their access to military aid and training.