USW professor awarded British Academy funding for genocide research

14 January, 2025

Palash Kamruzzaman

Professor Palash Kamruzzaman, head of the Social Policy Research and Innovation Group at USW, has secured £300,000 as part of a British Academy-funded research project led by Dr Bayes Ahmed from University College London. Of this total, £35,000 will be allocated to USW, supporting its contribution to the project.

The project, “Politics of Denial and Non-Recognition of Genocide”, explores why some of the world’s worst atrocities are denied or not officially recognised – and what this means for survivors, affected communities, and the wider world.

Genocide denial can leave survivors and their descendants without justice, worsen their suffering, and even make future atrocities more likely. This project will investigate the reasons behind denial, such as political power struggles, global politics, and media bias.

“Why does genocide denial matter? Survivors deserve justice, and understanding denial helps prevent future atrocities,” Prof Kamruzzaman explains.

"By comparing these cases to other recognised genocides, our research will highlight patterns in how the international community responds and where improvements are needed. We aim to recommend ways for governments, international organisations, and charities to respond more effectively and prevent denial in the future.”

As well as uncovering the political reasons for denial, the research will explore its human cost: how it impacts survivors’ mental health, social standing, and cultural identity. By bringing these stories to light, the team hopes to ensure that future atrocities are recognised and that survivors and their descendants are given the dignity and justice they deserve.

Professor Kamruzzaman’s expertise makes him a vital part of this work. With a background in anthropology, sociology, and social policy, he has conducted research on forced displacement, international aid, and development policies. This collaboration follows a recent British Academy project he led, which focused on understanding the experiences of violence and loss of dignity among displaced communities, with a particular emphasis on the Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh.

Professor Kamruzzaman concludes: “In the context of current global politics, I believe the findings of this study will offer critical insights into the geopolitics surrounding the recognition of genocides and genocidal events. Additionally, this work has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the pursuit of justice for the Rohingya, one of the most persecuted yet overlooked groups in the world.”

This project highlights the University of South Wales’ role in tackling global challenges, using research to make a real difference to people’s lives worldwide.