A Critique of the Law Relating to Protection of Internally Displaced Persons: A Case Study of Rwanda Between 1990 -2010

ABSTRACT This chssertation analyses the laws related to the internal displacement problem during armed conflicts. The thesis analyses the problem of IDPs in the Rwandan genocide since the problem of internally displaced persons is crucial for building peace, The laws related to IDPs during armed conflicts are not only important for creating incentives for them to return home, but also for generating the means to re-establish their lives elsewhere, i.e., to resettle and reintegrate. The methodology followed in this dissertation is the traditionalist approach that allowed for the subjective interpretation of issues derived from observance of history and law from other reports and relevant documents. The main focus stays on the legal framework. Through the various reports of The Rwandan Government and various Non Governmental Organizations and International bodies, the issue of IDPs in relation to property administration, repossessions, reconstruction and resettlement were researched. The results of the study show that the government of Rwanda has no sufficient laws governing the general issues of IDPs though a lot of efforts have been put in place to ensure the villagisation of these IDP5. The results further indicate that laws related to property rights are an important determinant of IDPs return and resettlement. A more detailed analysis of the IDPs in Rwanda uncovers the endogenous variables affecting IDPs in Rwanda. x