August 30 marks the International Day of the Disappeared. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) calls on the global community to “show great awareness” to the tragic disappearances of persons and the circumstances of their families. ICRC reports that in some areas, the number of missing persons is distressing. For example, in Columbia it was originally reported that of the 90,000, more than 68,000 would probably remain missing. In Sri Lanka, the fate of 16,000 persons remains unclear. In Peru, 13,000-16,000 persons have gone missing while their families continue to wait, in vain, for news on their whereabouts. As a result of the Balkan Conflicts, more than 11,000 persons are still considered missing (ICRC list registered 35,000).
The committee is currently trying to determine the fate and location of 52,000 people globally.
On the occasion of the International Day of the Disappeared, ICRC prepared a new publication titled “Living with Absence: Helping the Families of the Missing.” The publication discloses the missing persons’ trials and tribulations, the multiple needs of the families, and illustrates the committee’s aims and goals. To make it more poignant, the document includes quotes from family members of missing persons.
With regards to the Karabakh Conflict, more than 400 people have been reported missing. From the start of ICRC’s humanitarian aid in the region in 1992, the committee has been working closely with authorities to determine the fate of the missing persons and to meet the basic needs of their families.
ICRC is conducting a detailed data collection plan that includes biological samples from the missing persons’ family members, which will increase the probability of identifying the bodies. The committee also backs relevant organizations in creating a legal framework.
The organization works with families of missing persons residing in the area, by providing financial aid for home repair, as well as a microeconomic plans to support them in acquiring vocational skills and undertaking small businesses. The Armenian Red Cross Society, together with the ICRC and local partners, is providing psychiatric rehabilitation for the families, helping them cope with the pain of their loss and solve their health, legal, and social issues.
Civilnet interviewed the head of the ICRC Delegation to Armenia, Sarah Epprecht, in the past about the case of missing persons as a result of the Karabakh Conflict.
Read this story in Armenian.
