Forced Disappearance

Forced disappearance occurs when authorities or groups illegally arrest, detain, or abduct an individual and then refuse to acknowledge their whereabouts or status. This prevents the person from receiving legal protections or communication and often involves secrecy, creating a climate of fear. Such acts are considered serious human rights violations because they deny the victim's basic rights, including the right to be seen and heard, and can lead to torture, mistreatment, or death without accountability. Forced disappearances undermine justice and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.