Committee on Enforced Disappearances

Definition

The Committee on Enforced Disappearances is a United Nations body responsible for monitoring and promoting the implementation of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. It aims to address human rights violations related to enforced disappearances, providing a platform for victims and their families to seek justice and accountability while also guiding state parties in fulfilling their obligations under the convention.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Committee was established in 2011 following the adoption of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance by the UN General Assembly.
2. It consists of 10 independent experts who monitor the implementation of the Convention by state parties and provide recommendations for improvement.
3. The Committee receives reports from states about their progress in preventing enforced disappearances and can issue urgent appeals in cases of reported violations.
4. It also conducts country visits to assess situations where enforced disappearances are prevalent, engaging with victims' families and local authorities.
5. The Committee plays a crucial role in raising awareness about enforced disappearances, facilitating dialogue among stakeholders, and advocating for victims' rights.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances in relation to state parties?
  • The primary function of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances is to monitor and promote compliance with the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance among state parties. This involves reviewing reports submitted by states, issuing recommendations, and engaging in dialogue to ensure that states take effective measures to prevent enforced disappearances and protect victims' rights.
• How does the Committee on Enforced Disappearances address cases of enforced disappearances in specific countries?
  • The Committee addresses cases of enforced disappearances by conducting country visits where they engage directly with victims' families, government officials, and civil society organizations. During these visits, they assess the local situation regarding enforced disappearances, gather testimonies, and provide recommendations tailored to that specific context. This direct engagement helps them understand better the challenges faced by victims and fosters accountability.
• Evaluate the impact of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances on international human rights practices regarding enforced disappearances.
  • The Committee on Enforced Disappearances has significantly influenced international human rights practices by highlighting issues surrounding enforced disappearances and holding states accountable. Through its monitoring functions, it has encouraged greater transparency and legal reforms in various countries, fostering an environment where victims' rights are recognized and protected. Additionally, its advocacy work has raised global awareness about enforced disappearances as a critical human rights issue, pushing states to adhere more closely to their obligations under international law.

Related terms

Enforced Disappearance: A human rights violation where individuals are secretly abducted or imprisoned, with the state refusing to acknowledge their fate or whereabouts.

International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance: A treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly aimed at preventing enforced disappearances and ensuring accountability for such acts.

UN Human Rights Council: An intergovernmental body within the UN responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the globe, which plays a role in addressing issues like enforced disappearances.