Statement delivered by Ms. Marissa Edwards, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Guyana, at Security Council Arria-Formula meeting on "Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict: prevent and respond to persons going missing across the globe"

Thank you Chair,

I thank His Excellency Ambassador Albanai, Dr. Martinez, Ms. Anselmo, and Mr. Bhandari for their briefings on this important topic.

The issue of persons reported missing in connection with international and non-international armed conflicts continues to negatively impact efforts to end conflicts.  Cases of missing persons continue to have devastating effects on their families and communities who are left in uncertainty, stuck between hope and despair.

It is of great concern that the number of missing persons has drastically increased in recent years, with the SG’s 2024 report on the Protection of Civilians highlighting that the ‘ICRC registered 40,000 new missing persons cases in 2023.”  This followed more than 212,000 prior cases, most of which were related to armed conflict.

Guyana, therefore, views resolution 2474 as a critical contribution to international efforts to address the issue of missing persons in armed conflict. As provided in the resolution, States need to address the issue holistically, from prevention to tracing the location, identifying missing persons and returning human remains to their families, without adverse distinction. There must be communication with families.

Unfortunately, as evidenced by the recent alarming figures on missing persons, much more needs to be done to advance implementation of the resolution, and to strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law. 

I wish to highlight a few measures that can be taken to prevent and respond to persons going missing:

First, as a preventive measure, and to increase preparedness, States should prioritize the development of early response measures including safe evacuation routes, civilian safety protocols and systems to protect vital infrastructure, in line with International Humanitarian Law. Comprehensive databases to register displaced persons, detainees, those hospitalized and casualties should be developed to facilitate tracing of missing persons.

Second, the Council should continue to incorporate missing persons in conflict analysis. This can be achieved, inter alia, through the enhancement of existing data collection mechanisms which can promptly identify those missing.

It is crucial also that the dead are not left under the rubble or on battle grounds, but that their remains are recovered in a timely manner and efforts made to establish their identities.

Third, peace mediation processes should address the issue of missing persons as part of building and maintaining trust. Mediators must underscore the importance of addressing missing persons’ cases in conflict resolution efforts. Parties should be reminded of relevant international obligations related to missing persons in armed conflicts, including obligations to actively search for and uphold the rights of those who are missing. Effective investigations and prosecution of offences linked to missing persons must also be encouraged. This approach by mediators can address the needs and rights of those affected, resolve existing cases, and prevent further disappearances.

It is important that States adhere to existing international frameworks such as the Geneva Conventions and the Additional Protocols.

Chair,

In conclusion, Guyana reiterates our support for national and international efforts which effectively address the issue of missing persons. The sooner persons missing are accounted for, the sooner closure can be found, bringing solace to families and communities and contributing to lasting peace. Indeed, it is well recognized that the way cases of missing persons are addressed affects relations between parties to armed conflict and efforts to resolve conflicts.

Thank you.