In 2010, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 30 as the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. This date was selected to honor the memory of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino human rights activist subjected to enforced disappearance by state forces in 2007.

The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of enforced disappearance, a global problem impacting thousands of individuals annually. Enforced disappearance not only denies families and communities the right to ascertain the truth about their loved ones but also obstructs accountability, justice, and reparation.

The initiative for this day originated from the Latin American Federation of Associations for Relatives of Detained-Disappeared (FEDEFAM), a non-governmental organization established in 1981 in Costa Rica.

Background and History

• Origin: The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2010 through Resolution 65/209. The day aims to raise awareness about enforced or involuntary disappearances as a human rights issue and to honor the memory of victims.

• Date: It is observed on August 30th each year. The date was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the day in 1980 when a group of families in Latin America founded the Latin American Federation of Associations for Relatives of Detained-Disappeared (FEDEFAM).

Objectives

• Raise Awareness: The primary objective of the International Day is to raise awareness about enforced disappearances and their impact on individuals, families, and societies.

• Honoring Victims: It aims to honor the memory of victims of enforced disappearances and recognize the suffering of their families and loved ones.

• Promote Action: The day encourages governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to take action to prevent enforced disappearances, seek justice for victims, and support families of the disappeared.

Activities and Ways to Participate

• Commemorative Events: Governments, human rights organizations, and civil society groups may organize events such as memorial services, vigils, panel discussions, and exhibitions to commemorate victims of enforced disappearances.

• Awareness Campaigns: Educational campaigns, social media initiatives, and public awareness programs may be conducted to inform the public about the issue of enforced disappearances and advocate for human rights.

• Legal and Advocacy Work: Advocacy efforts may focus on urging governments to ratify international treaties and conventions against enforced disappearances, enact legislation to prevent disappearances, and prosecute perpetrators.

How to Participate

• Learn and Educate: Educate yourself and others about the definition, causes, and consequences of enforced disappearances, as well as the legal framework and international human rights standards related to this issue.

• Support Families: Show solidarity and support for families of disappeared persons by attending events, sharing their stories, and advocating for their rights to truth, justice, and reparations.

• Advocate for Justice: Advocate for the implementation of measures to prevent enforced disappearances, investigate cases of disappearances, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Impact and Significance

• Human Rights Focus: The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances focuses global attention on the human rights violations associated with enforced disappearances and advocates for respect for the rights of victims and their families.

• Support for Victims: It provides a platform for victims and their families to share their experiences, seek justice, and receive support from the international community.

• Prevention and Accountability: The day contributes to efforts to prevent enforced disappearances, strengthen legal frameworks, and ensure accountability for perpetrators, thereby promoting justice and reconciliation in affected communities.

Conclusion

The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and human rights violations associated with enforced disappearances worldwide. By participating in activities and initiatives on this day, individuals and organizations can contribute to raising awareness, advocating for justice, and supporting victims and their families in their quest for truth, justice, and accountability.