UNMIK Chief Peter Due has called for efforts to determine the fate of people who went missing during the war in Kosovo to remain focused on the victims and their families.
In a statement marking the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, Due said that, despite the progress made, more than 1,500 people are still considered missing since the end of the war.
“The issue of missing persons must never be politicized. Meaningful progress depends on cooperation, trust and a shared commitment to providing families with the answers they deserve,” he said.
“We stand with all the families who have waited so long for answers about the fate of their loved ones, and we call for their rights and needs to remain at the center of these efforts. UNMIK will continue to support psychological assistance and other forms of support for these families. Victims first. Action now,” he said.
He called for the full implementation of the European Union’s Declaration on Missing Persons, the continuation of the work of the group led by the International Committee of the Red Cross, and cooperation between Kosovo and Serbia.
UNMIK said it will continue supporting families with psychological assistance and other forms of support as they seek their right to know the fate and whereabouts of their missing relatives.
