They say “no news is good news.” But for the relatives of people who have gone missing in armed conflict and other emergencies, no news can mean years of uncertainty, stigmatization and even isolation.

That message comes from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) which is calling for more support for these families on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, observed on 30 August.

While the exact number of people worldwide who have disappeared is unknown, the ICRC says government records can help shed light on this “human tragedy.”

Patrick Maigua asked ICRC spokesperson Dorothea Krimitas about the anguish experienced by those who are still awaiting word about their missing loved ones.

Duration: 4'37"