In solidarity with families of enforced disappearance victims from all communities, says UN

• UN in SL issues message to mark International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances
• Says it is vital that those who work in aid of seeking redress for victims continue their important work

 

In a message on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, the United Nations in Sri Lanka said yesterday that it stands in solidarity with the families of victims of enforced disappearances from all communities across Sri Lanka.

“The families and friends of the victims experience the slow mental anguish of not knowing the fate of their loved ones. They alternate between hope and despair, wondering and waiting, sometimes for years, for news that may never come. Therefore, it is vital that those who work in aid of seeking redress for victims continue their important work,” UN in Sri Lanka Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer said in the message.

She said the UN recognises that it is women who are most often at the forefront of the struggle to resolve the disappearance of family members, therefore their well-being needs to be prioritised as they face numerous social and economic consequences.

“The security and safety of families of victims, human rights defenders, witnesses and legal counsel dealing with cases of enforced disappearance need to be safeguarded. Today is a day to renew our commitment to stand by the families who have lost loved ones and are still looking for answers,” the message said.