The Netherlands sign UN convention against disappearances

Aim for human rights is pleased that the Netherlands have signed the UN convention against enforced disappearances on April 29. Aim for human rights has advocated signature of this new treaty since it was agreed upon by the UN General Assembly in November 2006. 73 states have now signed. The next step is speedy adjustment of Dutch legislation, so that ratification can follow.

Importance

Aim for human rights sees Dutch signature followed by ratifcation as an important signal to other states. But implementation of the treaty is also necessary to prevent (knowing or unknowing) collaboration on disappearances by the Dutch government itself, such as might happen in the war on terror. The new treaty demands among others that the whereabouts of all prisoners are made public.

Protection against disappearances

The convention requires recording enforced disappearances as a felony in national criminal law. It also includes measures against impunity, the granting of rights to all victims of disappearances, preventive measures and the protection of children against adoption in the event that parents or the mother have disappeared.

Campaign for ratification

Dutch signature is an important step in the fight against disappearances. Aim for human rights now calls for speedy ratification and implementation of the convention in Dutch legislation. The convention will come to force after ratification by 20 states. So far four countries have ratified. Internationally, Aim for human rights campaigns for the convention together with 20 other organisations: the International Coalition against Enforced Disappearances (ICAED).

See also: de thematic page on enforced disappearances

See also: the website of the International Coalition against Enforced Disappearances