Statement from the International Agency for Development and Humanitarian Aid on the occasion of the International Day of Enforced Disappearances
On this day, August 30, we celebrate the International Day of Enforced Disappearances, an occasion to shed light on one of the most serious human rights violations that continues to affect thousands of people around the world. The crime of enforced disappearance is not only an attack on the disappeared individual, but also on his family and his entire community, and is a crime against humanity for which the perpetrators must be held accountable.
The International Agency for Development and Humanitarian Aid would like to remind the international community, governments and humanitarian organizations of the need to intensify efforts to uncover the fate of the thousands persons missing by the criminal Rapid Support Militia, which committed the most heinous crimes against Sudanese citizens and to ensure that justice is provided to their families. We demand that serious steps be taken to put an end to this inhumane crime in Sudan in particular, and around the world in general, and to oblige governments to fulfill their legal obligations under relevant international treaties, including the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.
We also stress the importance of supporting victims and their families, providing them with psychological and social care, in addition to establishing effective mechanisms to search and investigate cases of enforced disappearance, and ensuring the protection of witnesses and informants of these crimes.
In conclusion, we renew our full commitment to combating this heinous crime and working side by side with victims, their families and the international community for a world free of enforced disappearances. Our efforts will not stop until every missing person knows the truth, and every family finds some solace in justice.
*International Agency for Development and Humanitarian Aid*
August 30, 2024
London – United Kingdom