Paper short abstract

The mass deportations and killings of the Armenians occurred before the concepts of crimes against humanity and genocide had emerged. Mass atrocities crimes denial can be confronted in a variety of ways that can include academic writings and the arts.

Paper long abstract

The mass deportations and killings of the Armenians during WW I and in the immediate years after occurred before the emergence of the concepts of crimes against humanity and genocide and when the concept of war crimes was still unfolding. Today, these three terms constitute key conceptual and legal terms in international law for the United Nations, the International Criminal Court and member states. Yet, as in 1915, contemporary times reveals the continued presence of mass atrocities denial, both state-sponsored and by individuals. It remains an important and pressing challenge to confront such denial in a variety of ways. This can include academic historical writings, memoirs, museums, memorials and the arts. Detached analytical accounts are important in fostering understanding on causality, phases and consequences. More engaged personal artistic styles can be profoundly influential in promoting empathy and sympathy towards the victims. Together the two approaches can perhaps help bridge the vast chasm.

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