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 global observance that seeks to raise awareness about the serious human rights violations associated with enforced disappearances – a widespread problem in various contexts, including armed conflicts and state repression. Enforced disappearances occur when individuals are covertly abducted, detained, and then their whereabouts concealed by state or non-state actors, effectively placing them outside the legal protections. The Observance highlights the importance of addressing this issue, supporting the families of the forcibly disappeared, and ensuring accountability for these crimes.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010, the day is observed annually on August 30 in recognition of the work of the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances. While New Zealand is not immune from the effects of enforced disappearances, its government has been proactive in supporting international efforts to combat this violation. New Zealand ratified the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in 2019, demonstrating its commitment to promoting human rights, rule of law, and due process.

In New Zealand, International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is observed through various public events, including panel discussions, exhibitions, and film screenings that aim to raise awareness about the issue and commemorate the victims. Civil society organizations such as Amnesty International and the Red Cross often play an active role in organizing these events, engaging people in conversations about the importance of accountability, prevention, and support for the affected families. The day provides an opportunity for New Zealanders to reaffirm their commitment to addressing enforced disappearances and promoting a human rights-centered world.

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.
• While enforced disappearances are not a prominent issue in New Zealand, the country plays an active role in supporting global efforts to prevent human rights violations.
• New Zealand has ratified the critical international treaty known as the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED), which seeks to prevent enforced disappearances and ensure the rights and justice for victims and their families.

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

Top things to do in NZ 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.
• Learn more about Amnesty International New Zealand. This organization is dedicated to promoting human rights and raising awareness about injustices in New Zealand. They regularly publish reports and articles about various topics, including enforced disappearances.
• The National Library of New Zealand collects and preserves important documents, including those related to human rights violations or historical events. Their collections can be accessed online or in person.