The issue of enforced disappearances continues to raise concerns in Guinea. On September 28, 2026, during a joint press conference held by the Association of Victims, Parents, and Friends of September 28, 2009 (AVIPA), the Guinean Organization for the Defense of Human Rights and Citizens (OGDH), and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), Alexis Deswaef, President of FIDH, addressed the matter. He emphasized that disappearances are a major problem that requires immediate attention and response from political and judicial authorities.
Deswaef stated that the issue of disappearances was also raised during their meeting with the Attorney General. The human rights organizations inquired about independent, impartial, and thorough investigations, particularly in connection with the discovery of mass graves. However, the Attorney General cited the secrecy of the investigations, which Deswaef argued should not prevent judicial authorities from disclosing certain information of public interest.
According to Deswaef, several questions remain unanswered, including the existence of ongoing investigations and measures taken by the authorities. He stressed that the establishment of truth must also lead to the determination of responsibilities and, if necessary, the prosecution of those responsible. The FIDH President emphasized that the right to truth is essential and that the Guinean authorities must act to provide answers.
Deswaef highlighted the consequences of enforced disappearances on human rights defenders and their families. He noted that these disappearances can have a chilling effect on the entire civil society, dissuading them from pursuing their legitimate actions. The FIDH President called on the Guinean authorities to take action and respond to the concerns raised.
The press conference was held to commemorate the 17th anniversary of the September 28, 2009 massacre. On that day, a violent crackdown on a stadium rally in Conakry resulted in numerous casualties and arrests. The event remains a traumatic experience for many Guineans, and the issue of enforced disappearances continues to be a major concern.
The FIDH, AVIPA, and OGDH have joined forces to demand action from the Guinean authorities. They are calling for transparency and accountability in the investigations into enforced disappearances. The organizations stress that the authorities' silence on this matter is problematic and that they must take concrete steps to address the concerns of victims' families and human rights defenders.
The commemoration of the September 28, 2009 massacre serves as a reminder of the need for justice and accountability in Guinea. The FIDH President's call for truth and action highlights the urgency of addressing the issue of enforced disappearances. The Guinean authorities face pressure to respond to the demands of human rights organizations and provide closure for the families of victims.
Key points
- FIDH President Alexis Deswaef demands truth and action from Guinean authorities regarding enforced disappearances.
