The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, observed annually on August 30, serves to raise global awareness about the grave injustices suffered by victims and their families. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed this day in 2010 through Resolution 65/209, to honor those who have disappeared—often at the hands of governments or state-backed actors—under circumstances marked by secrecy, denial, and impunity.
Enforced disappearances involve individuals being secretly abducted or detained, denied legal protection, and stripped of their fundamental rights, with their fate and whereabouts remaining unknown. Victims frequently endure severe human rights violations, including torture and denial of due process. This practice targets not only political activists and human rights defenders but also journalists and ordinary citizens who dare to challenge injustice.
Recognized as an ongoing crime against humanity, enforced disappearances continue to affect tens of thousands of people worldwide. The International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, adopted by the UN in 2006, establishes a legal framework to prevent such acts, uncover the truth, and secure justice for victims and their families. Yet, many countries have yet to ratify or fully implement this vital convention.
This international day is a solemn reminder of the suffering endured by victims and loved ones. It calls on the global community to demand accountability, safeguard human dignity, and work collectively to eradicate enforced disappearances, ensuring that no person is ever left unaccounted for.
Follow us @tongerkhobor
#EnforcedDisappearances
#IDVED
#HumanRights
#StandWithTheDisappeared
#NeverAgain
#UN
#InternationalLaw
#JusticeForTheDisappeared
#HumanDignity
#EndImpunity
#MissingPersons
#TruthAndJustice
#AbuseOfPower
#VictimsOfCrime
#August30
