The Olympic idea between ideal and reality This essay reflects the private opinion of O.M. Gruber-Lavin only, and is not an official statement of the Lazarus Union The Olympic Games... Read more
International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, observed annually on August 30, is a somber occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the global issue of enforced disappearances. This day highlights the plight of those who have vanished without a trace, often at the hands of the state or with its acquiescence, leaving families and communities in a state of perpetual uncertainty and anguish. The United Nations (UN) established this day to emphasize the urgent need to end this grave human rights violation and to support the victims and their families.
Connection with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Enforced disappearances are intrinsically linked to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focusing on justice, peace, and strong institutions. SDG 16 aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable institutions at all levels. Enforced disappearances undermine these goals by perpetuating fear, injustice, and impunity. Specifically:
- SDG 16.1 aims to significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere. Enforced disappearances, as a form of state-sponsored violence, directly contravene this target.
- SDG 16.3 calls for promoting the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensuring equal access to justice for all. The secretive nature of enforced disappearances denies victims and their families the opportunity for legal recourse and justice.
- SDG 16.10 emphasizes ensuring public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements. Enforced disappearances violate these freedoms and suppress essential human rights.
Meaning of This Day for the Lazarus Union
For the Lazarus Union, a humanitarian organization dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable and promoting peace, the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances holds profound significance. The Lazarus Union advocates for the protection of human rights and the rule of law, aligning with their mission to aid those in need without discrimination.
- Advocacy and Awareness: The Lazarus Union uses this day to advocate for the victims of enforced disappearances. They organize events and campaigns to raise awareness about the issue and its impact on society. By bringing attention to these injustices, the Lazarus Union helps to put pressure on governments to uphold human rights standards.
- Collaboration with International Bodies: The Lazarus Union collaborates with international organizations, including the UN and various human rights groups, to push for global recognition of the problem and the implementation of international norms to prevent enforced disappearances.
Facts and Figures
Enforced disappearances continue to be a global issue, with thousands of cases reported annually. According to the UN, in 2021 alone, the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances transmitted 651 new cases to 30 states. As of the same year, over 46,000 cases remain unresolved across 96 states, reflecting the ongoing and widespread nature of this violation.
- Geographical Distribution: Enforced disappearances are reported in numerous countries, with significant numbers in regions experiencing conflict or authoritarian rule, such as Syria, Mexico, and Sri Lanka.
- Impact on Families: Families of the disappeared face severe emotional and psychological distress. The uncertainty of their loved ones’ fate leads to prolonged suffering, and they often encounter financial difficulties due to the loss of a breadwinner.
- Legal Frameworks: International conventions, such as the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, aim to prevent and address enforced disappearances. However, enforcement and compliance remain challenges.
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is a vital reminder of the ongoing struggle to combat this egregious human rights violation. For organizations like the Lazarus Union, it is a call to action to continue their advocacy, support victims and families, and work towards a world where enforced disappearances are eradicated, and justice prevails.
