International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances (30 Aug)
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is a United Nations (UN) designated holiday observed annually on August 30th. It aims to raise awareness about the issue of enforced disappearances and to support the families of the victims.
Enforced disappearances occur when a person is deprived of their liberty by state agents or people acting with the state’s authorization or support, and the state refuses to acknowledge the deprivation of liberty or conceal the fate or whereabouts of the person. This constitutes a grave violation of human rights, and it can have a devastating impact on the families of the victims.
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances was established by the UN General Assembly in 2010. The date was chosen to commemorate the anniversary of the Declaration on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, which was adopted by the General Assembly in 1992.
On this day, the UN calls on all member states to take effective measures to prevent and eradicate enforced disappearances. The UN also encourages member states to cooperate with each other in investigating and prosecuting cases of enforced disappearances.
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is an important opportunity to raise awareness about this grave human rights violation and to show solidarity with the families of the victims. It is a reminder that we must all work together to end enforced disappearances and to ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to justice.
Celebrating International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances
The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is commemorated globally on August 30th with various events and activities to raise awareness and honor the victims of enforced disappearances and their families. Here’s how it is observed around the world:
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Vigils and Memorials:
- Memorial services are held to remember and honor the victims of enforced disappearances. Families and loved ones gather to share stories, light candles, and pay tribute to those who have been forcibly disappeared.
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Awareness Campaigns:
- Campaigns are organized to raise awareness about the issue of enforced disappearances. Educational events, workshops, and exhibitions are held to inform the public about the impact of enforced disappearances on individuals, families, and communities.
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Advocacy and Calls for Action:
- Advocacy groups, human rights organizations, and civil society groups use this day to call for an end to enforced disappearances and demand justice for victims. They organize protests, petitions, and letter-writing campaigns to pressure governments to take action.
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Government Statements and Pledges:
- Governments and international organizations often issue statements reaffirming their commitment to preventing and eradicating enforced disappearances. They may announce new policies or initiatives aimed at addressing the issue.
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Solidarity with Families:
- Families and relatives of the disappeared come together to form support networks and share their experiences. They often organize events to highlight their ongoing struggle for truth and justice.
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Media Coverage and Storytelling:
- Media outlets around the world report on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, sharing stories of victims and their families. Documentaries, articles, and interviews help raise awareness and humanize the issue.
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Academic and Research Activities:
- Universities and research institutions host conferences, seminars, and workshops to discuss the issue from a legal, historical, and social perspective. They contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon and propose solutions.
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Cultural Events and Art Exhibitions:
- Art exhibitions, poetry readings, and theater performances are organized to raise awareness through creative expression. These events aim to communicate the experiences, emotions, and stories of those affected by enforced disappearances.
