Unaffiliated MEP Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus (NI) argues that there is a need for a European database to identify those missing in conflicts – with DNA samples, with centralized information, accessible to families and humanitarian organizations.

Here is the full position of Luis-Vicențiu Lazarus (NI), an unaffiliated MEP:

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: the need for the European Union to contribute to solving the humanitarian crisis of people missing in war and conflict

(2025/2550(RSP))

We are talking about one of the greatest human tragedies of our times: hundreds of thousands of people missing in wars and conflicts, families torn apart by uncertainty, children searching for their parents, parents not knowing if their sons are still alive. It is a silent drama that too many choose to ignore.

The European Union cannot remain a passive spectator. We talk about human rights, dignity and justice, but what are we doing for these people? Where is justice for the missing? Where is the hope for those who are waiting for an answer?

We have an obligation to act decisively. We must support the identification and location of missing persons. We have the technology, we have the expertise, we have the resources. Why don’t we have results?

We need a European database to identify those missing in conflict – with DNA samples, with centralized information, accessible to families and humanitarian organizations. We need to put pressure on states and groups that impede investigations. We cannot tolerate opacity and lack of cooperation! Those who hide war crimes must pay!

This is not ‘someone else’s’ problem! The wars in Ukraine, the Middle East or Africa are also causing victims among European citizens! Every disappearance is a tragedy, every family waiting for an answer is a shame for our passivity.

If Europe wants to be a global leader for peace and human rights, let it demonstrate this by deeds, not empty words. Otherwise, everything we proclaim about humanity and values is just an image game.

The responsibility lies solely with the MEP who finances this political and information activity. The European Parliament is not responsible for any possible use of the information contained in this document.