International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is a United Nations (UN) sanctioned observance dedicated to remembering the countless victims of forced disappearances worldwide. Enforced disappearances occur when individuals are secretly abducted or imprisoned by a state or political organisation, followed by a refusal to acknowledge their fate or whereabouts. The purpose of this annual observance is to raise awareness on this critical human rights issue and call for the prevention and elimination of this heinous practice, while providing support to the victims and their families in their quest for justice and truth.

This observance, though relatively new, was established by the UN General Assembly on 21 December 2010. Australia has taken an active role in addressing enforced disappearances, both in its own region and globally, by signing the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in 2011. Furthermore, Australia ensures that the observance of International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances serves as a reminder to its citizens about the severity of this issue and the need for continued action to prevent further disappearances and support victims and their families.

In Australia, International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is observed through various events and activities aimed at raising awareness on the issue. Activities may include seminars, workshops, and educational programs led by human rights organisations, universities, and other institutions. People are encouraged to engage in discussions and debates on the subject to enhance global understanding and promote an environment that demands accountability and seeks justice for the victims. International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is observed annually on August 30th with the hope that it can help end these abhorrent practices and provide support to all affected by forced disappearances.

Facts about Victims of Enforced Disappearances

• The UN Working Group has recorded more than 59,000 cases of enforced disappearances across 110 countries since 1980, including 651 new cases originating in 30 countries in its most recent annual report.
• More than 46,000 cases of enforced disappearances remain unresolved.
• One of the cruelest aspects of enforced disappearances is the prolonged uncertainty experienced by the families of the disappeared, who often spend years or even decades not knowing whether their loved ones are alive or dead.
• According to the Australian Federal Police's (AFP) National Missing Persons Coordination Centre, more than 38,000 people are reported missing in Australia each year, with the majority being found within a short period. However, around 2,600 people are considered as long-term missing, meaning they have been missing for more than three months.
• Indigenous Australians are disproportionately affected by enforced disappearances. According to a study by the Australian Institute of Criminology, Indigenous persons make up 2% of Australia’s population but account for 16% of people missing for six months or more and are three times more likely to be reported missing than non-Indigenous Australians.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Watch the UN's International Day of the Victims of Forced Disappearances video. It shows how hundreds of thousands of people have vanished from over 80 countries around the world.
• Learn how to stand up for the disappeared. The UN's campaign details how to spot a person who may be the victim of an abduction or kidnapping. It advises what to do should you witness such an event.
• Check out the National Film and Sound Archive. This institution has a collection of documentaries and films that document enforced disappearances in Australia, including the Stolen Generations.
• Learn more about the National Sorry Day Committee. This organization focuses on the Stolen Generations, which is a form of enforced disappearance, and provides resources and support to those affected.