Forced Disappearance

/ˈfɔːrst dɪsəˌpɪərəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The secret abduction or imprisonment of a person by a state or political organization, followed by a refusal to acknowledge the person's fate or whereabouts, placing them outside legal protection.
    The report condemned the government for numerous cases of forced disappearance during the conflict.

Forms

  • forced disappearance
  • forced disappearances

Commentary

Often used interchangeably with 'enforced disappearance' in international law, but 'forced disappearance' emphasizes the coercive concealment aspect central to state accountability.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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