What is the legal system in Rwanda?

Rwanda is a country with a mixed structure in terms of its legal system. The legal system has been influenced by both local customs based on traditional legal principles and modern legal systems. Rwanda adopted the Belgian legal system when it was a colony of Belgium. Therefore, the Rwandan legal system is based on the Belgian civil law system. The main legal documents in force in Rwanda include the constitution, laws, regulations, court decisions and traditional customs. The judicial system in Rwanda consists of three levels: courts, courts of appeal and the Supreme Court. Courts hear criminal, civil, commercial and administrative cases. Appellate courts review the legality of court decisions. The Supreme Court checks the conformity of the constitution and laws. The justice system in Rwanda has undergone a major change after the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. After the genocide, with the support of the international community, a court system called Gacaca was established. Gacaca courts were established to process cases related to genocide crimes and ensure that justice is provided. These courts have a structure that encourages the participation of local people and aims to ensure peace. Rwanda is also bound by international law. Compliance with international law is a fundamental part of Rwanda's international relations. Since Rwanda is a member of the United Nations, it must comply with UN resolutions and international agreements. As a result, Rwanda's legal system has a mixed structure, influenced by local customs and modern legal systems. This system, which brings together traditional and modern legal principles, aims to ensure justice and preserve social peace.