Dear Members,
Several months ago, the Executive proposed that we begin discussions
with the International Network of Genocide Scholars with a view to
bringing our organization and theirs together. Our members were
consulted and the Executive concluded that there was broad support for
proceeding to explore this matter. Members of our Association expressed
a range of concerns, including the status of the journal and of the
resolutions adopted by IAGS in the past, and these issues were very much
in our minds during talks with colleagues from the other organization.
After initial exchanges, it became clear that there were not any
insurmountable obstacles to a merger of the two bodies and that
agreement on the major issues could be reached.
However, the leadership of the International Network of Genocide
Scholars has now decided to suspend these discussions. We cannot take
this further at this point. The Executive of the International
Association of Genocide Scholars remains committed to the principle that
a unified organization of genocide scholars is better than two, and that
past divisions and interpersonal conflicts should be set aside in the
interest of advancing our critical field of study. It seems desirable to
us that the conversation between the two organizations about a merger
should continue, but this will have to wait until both sides are ready
and willing. In the meantime, we have much to look forward to including
our upcoming conference.
Best wishes, and I hope to see you all in Buenos Aires in July.
William Schabas