States or governments have the obligation to prevent enforced disappearances take place in their country. There are several ways in which they can prevent this crime, like codifying enforced disappearances as an offence under their criminal law, adopting relevant legislation, or establishing civil complaint procedures. Read more

Adopting national legislation that criminalises enforced disappearances as specific criminal offence, is not a common practice. However the adoption of specific penal, civil or administrative measures can produce effective results in the prevention against enforced disappearances and protection and reparation of victims. Read more

Truth and Reconciliation Commissions are official bodies formed to investigate violations of human rights and international humanitarian law over a period of time. These commissions have a temporary duration, a specific goal and they conclude with a final report and recommendations for changes. Read more