In a poignant address, UN human rights chief Volker Türk highlighted the alarming rise in missing persons, recording over 56,500 new cases in 2024 alone. This marks the highest increase in two decades, largely driven by armed conflict and the blatant neglect of international humanitarian law. Türk emphasized the need for member states to confront this “unprecedented” crisis, which stems from conflicts, state repression, and counter-terrorism efforts.
The issue was further elaborated upon at a General Assembly meeting, where both Türk and President Philémon Yang acknowledged the dire situation. Yang asserted our moral obligation to locate every missing individual. The Working Group on Enforced and Involuntary Disappearances noted handling over 62,000 cases across 115 countries over 45 years, a statistic described as merely the “tip of a very large iceberg.”
Türk outlined three action areas, calling for adherence to international human rights conventions, particularly the 2006 International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Currently, only 77 countries have ratified this pivotal agreement, which empowers families with rights to know about their loved ones’ status and investigations.
He stressed that accountability must begin with uncovering the truth about missing individuals, urging rigorous investigations and the prosecution of perpetrators. Empowering victims, especially families—often led by women in perilous situations—must be central to any response. Many face legal barriers that hinder their access to health and education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and stigma.
Türk noted growing international momentum, citing the establishment of the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in Syria, aimed at uncovering the fates of the missing and assisting affected families. He concluded by reinforcing the shared duty of all to support victims and uphold human rights. “Our common humanity demands it,” he declared, urging collaborative action towards truth and justice for all those affected by enforced disappearances.
In a recent briefing, UN human rights chief Volker Türk announced that 2024 witnessed over 56,500 new cases of missing persons, the highest in 20 years, driven by conflict and neglect of humanitarian law. He called for accountability, stronger human rights frameworks, and victim-centred responses to combat this unprecedented crisis. President Yang echoed the necessity of finding every missing person, urging decisive action.
The rising crisis of missing persons, highlighted by dire statistics and international recognition, calls for urgent action from member states. Affirming accountability, strengthening legal frameworks, and centering victims in the response are imperative steps towards addressing this tragedy. As reiterated by UN officials, the commitment to truth and justice is not only necessary but a testament to our shared humanity.
Original Source: news.un.org
