The Gambia has been nominated to serve as Non-Permanent Co-Chair of the Global Alliance for the Missing, alongside the Swiss Confederation, for a two-year term commencing on October 1, 2026. This nomination was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad in a press release issued on Tuesday.
The Global Alliance for the Missing is an international partnership that brings together states, international organizations, and civil society partners. Its primary goal is to strengthen international cooperation in addressing the plight of missing persons, including migrants who go missing along migratory routes, and to support affected families and communities.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the nomination is an important recognition of The Gambia's continued engagement in migration governance and diaspora affairs. It also acknowledges the country's longstanding commitment to the protection of vulnerable migrants. The Ministry expressed appreciation to the Global Alliance for the Missing and its Secretariat, hosted by the International Committee of the Red Cross, for the confidence placed in The Gambia.
In accepting this responsibility, the Government of The Gambia reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the Swiss Confederation, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and all members of the Global Alliance for the Missing throughout the two-year term. The Government looks forward to contributing constructively to the objectives of the Alliance.
The announcement comes as The Gambia currently hosts a three-day training on missing migrants organized by the International Organization for Migration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This training is an example of The Gambia's ongoing efforts to address the issue of missing persons, particularly in the context of migration.
Defence Minister Sering Modou Njie's role in this new capacity has not been detailed, but as a key government official, he is likely to play a part in The Gambia's activities within the Global Alliance for the Missing. The Ministry's press release did not provide specific details on how The Gambia plans to contribute to the Alliance's objectives.
The Gambia's nomination as Non-Permanent Co-Chair of the Global Alliance for the Missing reflects the country's growing involvement in international efforts to address the humanitarian consequences of persons going missing.
Key points
- The Gambia has been nominated as Non-Permanent Co-Chair of the Global Alliance for the Missing for a two-year term.
- The nomination recognizes The Gambia's engagement in migration governance and diaspora affairs.
- The Gambia will work closely with the Swiss Confederation, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and other members of the Global Alliance for the Missing.
