How developments in the science and technology of searching, recovering and identifying the missing/ disappeared are positively affecting the rights of victims around the world

Abstract

This article examines the ways in which missing persons have been dealt with, mainly in the former Yugoslavia, to show how the huge advances made in the search for, recovery and identification of those who disappeared is positively impacting on the ability of families to find their loved ones. The article surveys the advances made in dealing with the missing on a range of fronts, including the technical and forensic capacities. It examines some of the other developments that have occurred around the world with regard to the search for, recovery and identification of people and makes recommendations on how to make improvements to ensure that the rights of families around the world, as well as a range of other human rights, including truth and justice, are enhanced.

Why victimology should focus on all victims, including all missing and disappeared persons

“…These are all compelling reasons as to why the issue should be resolved. However, it still receives too little international attention (Sarkin, 2017). Victimology has a role in this regard.…”

“…This involvement should take place on a more constant and consistent basis, and include all issues surrounding missing persons. The state should be responsible for helping families in their pursuit, and helping them to supply DNA, in order to try and find matches with any human remains that are found (Sarkin, 2017). Finally, but very importantly, the full consent of the families should be acquired more frequently and consistently.…”

Estándares probatorios y dilemas jurídicos en la identificación de restos de personas víctimas de desaparición forzada. Una mirada desde la experiencia chilena

“…En cuanto a los métodos de identificación, el «giro forense» en la investigación de las atrocidades masivas ha ido dando lugar, poco a poco y no sin dificultades, a una progresiva uniformación de criterios y principios de buenas prácticas forenses a nivel internacional (CICR, 2009; Cordner & McKelvie, 2002;Goodwin, 2017;Tidball-Binz, 2006;Tidball-Binz et al, 2013). Ella se enfrenta, sin embargo, al mismo tiempo, a la rápida evolución en las tecnologías de identificación, motivada en muchos casos por los propios desafíos suscitados por las intervenciones humanitarias en contextos de posconflicto (Sarkin, 2017;Wagner, 2008, pp. 82 y ss.…”