China calls for action on missing persons in armed conflicts focusing on full implementation of UNSC resolutions.
China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Geng Shuang, has urged the global community to intensify efforts in addressing the issue of missing persons during armed conflicts, emphasizing the need for full implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
During a Security Council briefing, Geng highlighted that missing persons are a vital part of civilian protection in conflict zones. He noted that despite the adoption of Resolution 2474 in 2019, its implementation has seen little progress.
Quoting data from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Geng revealed that more than 56,000 new cases of missing persons were reported worldwide in 2024 — the largest annual increase in 20 years.
He pointed out ongoing humanitarian crises: In Gaza, more than 50,000 people have died in 19 months of conflict, with mass graves emerging and many still unaccounted for. In Sudan, over 11.6 million people are displaced, and the ICRC has logged over 7,700 missing. In South Sudan, nearly 100 aid workers have been killed and more are missing. In Haiti, escalating gang violence has led to widespread disappearances, especially among women and children.
Geng lamented the human cost behind the statistics, referencing the pain of families searching for loved ones, such as mothers combing through rubble in search of missing children. He urged the global community to support affected countries and assist families in finding closure.
To address the crisis, Geng proposed three measures: First, all conflict parties must uphold international humanitarian law by searching for missing individuals, informing families, and allowing humanitarian access. Second, the Security Council must prioritize conflict prevention and peaceful resolution to address root causes. Third, he stressed the need for global support, including technical assistance, information sharing, and the use of advanced technologies for identification efforts.
He reiterated China’s support for the ICRC and similar impartial organizations and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to working with the global community to ensure the thorough implementation of Resolution 2474 and resolve the plight of missing persons in conflict zones.
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