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Editorial

Characterization of the crime of forced disappearance of persons


“After the legislative process relating to the bill for the characterization of the crime of forced disappearance of persons, the government draws the attention of the public, both at home and abroad, to the deep significance of this law. It provides the legal basis that is needed for a more effective defense and protection of Human Rights, allows progress to be made in the fight against impunity, and it also contributes to the strengthening of the legal foundations of our state.

This law represents a very important step in the development and the carrying out of our Policy on the Promotion, Guarantee and Respect for Human Rights and the application of International Humanitarian Law. It demonstrates this administration’s genuine commitment to these issues, to which it has given priority ever since the beginning of its term of office. In addition, it implements recommendations made by the international community.

The government wishes to recognize the invaluable work determinedly carried out by non-governmental Human Rights organizations. Largely, it was thanks to them, and to their expert advice, that the issue remained among the concerns of society and those of the government. Their efforts started to bear fruit in the first stages of the bill’s conceptual design, and had considerable impact on parliamentary debates”.

Gustavo Bell Lemus, May 31, 2000


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