AMD and the Red Cross Movement

Missing Persons: A Humanitarian Concern

The fate of missing persons is an important humanitarian concern for the Red Cross Movement. In fact, the Right to Know the fate of relatives is a fundamental tenant of International Humanitarian Law

Not knowing the fate of missing relatives can cause ongoing pain and suffering, and deepen the wounds of those who have experienced violence or war.  Ongoing pain and uncertainty can also sabotage peace and reconciliation efforts and contribute to further conflict.

With no proof that their loved ones are living or dead, relatives of missing persons will often nurse faint hope they may be alive.  When human remains can be identified, their families have an opportunity to carry out a proper burial, and come to peace with their loved one’s death.

Additional Reading

More information on Red Cross Movement involvement in the Ante Mortem Data Project is available in a special report by the ICRC: Unknown Fate, Untold Grief.  This report is available on the ICRC web site, in PDF format, in English only at: http://www.icrc.org/Web/eng/siteeng0.nsf/htmlall/5EWCLN/$file/SR_Balkans_Missing.pdf

Posted March 29, 2006