Family Associations of Disappeared and Missing Persons: Lessons from Latin America and Beyond

This study presented by the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, Swiss Peace and Caesar Families Association presents lessons learned about the formation, structure and the activities of family associations. It is based on a literature review about the agency of families of disappeared and missing persons, as well as interviews conducted by the authors with different organizations in different countries.

The publication also provides considerations to be taken into account when working with Syrian families of disappeared and missing persons. It shows that the needs and wishes of the victims and their families should be at the center of attention. Organizations should not act on behalf or in the name of the victims but the victims (or relatives of victims) should be empowered to advocate for themselves.