United Nations rights group investigating disappearances kicks off meeting in Argentina
24 July 2008 - A United Nations human rights group today will begin reviewing over 300 cases of disappearances around the world,
holding its session for the first time in Argentina, whose history with disappearances contributed to the creation of
the panel in 1980.
During its three-day meeting in Buenos Aires, the Working Group on Enforced of Involuntary Disappearances will evaluate
new cases and review past ones from dozens of countries.
The expert panel also plans to hold talks with Argentine officials and non-government organizations (NGOs). The experts
had recently wrapped up a country visit to the South American nation, where they evaluated steps taken to address cases
of disappearances.
The five-member Working Group is mandated to assist the relatives of disappeared persons by ascertaining their fate and
whereabouts, as well as to act as a conduit between the families and Governments concerned.
ENDS