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Uncovering the Landscape of Missing Persons in Europe: Insights from the LOST 2 Project Survey

dionusis
dionusis 28/04/2023

Missing persons cases are a complex and distressing reality across Europe, affecting countless families. The LOST 2 Project, funded by the European Union, has undertaken a significant survey delving into the social and legal contexts and characteristics of this phenomenon in several EU countries. This comprehensive survey, conducted in Italy, Spain, Norway, Portugal, Greece, and Belgium, alongside a European overview, provides valuable insights into how disappearances are defined, classified, and investigated across borders.

Defining Disappearance Across Borders

One fundamental aspect explored is the definition of disappearance. In Italy, for example, a person is considered missing when they have left their last domicile or residence with no news, clearly distinguished from legal concepts like absence (missing for two years, declared judicially) or presumed death (missing for ten years, declared judicially). While the survey presents definition details for each participating country, the specific nuances highlight the varying legal perspectives on what constitutes a “disappearance.” Understanding these definitions is crucial for initiating the correct procedures.

Statistics and Classification Reveal Patterns

The survey presents the latest statistical data identified at the institutional level for each country. Italy, for instance, saw a notable increase in missing persons reports in 2022, totalling 24,369 – an average of 67 per day and 26.4% more than the previous year. In Italy, minors represent the largest age group reported missing, particularly foreign males aged 15-17, although reports of those over 65 also grew. A significant finding was that 82% of reported cases in Italy were considered voluntary removals.

Classification systems vary considerably across countries. Italy classifies missing persons officially by age, nationality, and reason for disappearance, also considering factors like ability, drug use, or behavioural issues. Portugal classifies primarily by age (children 0-14, 14-18, adults over 18). Greece classifies by region, biological gender, and age (adult/minor). Norway, however, lacks a specific national classification, with police focusing intensely on the specific case details, prioritizing the reason for disappearance above all else (voluntary, accident, medical situation, suicide, or criminal activity). The survey notes that knowing and implementing classifications has a direct impact on determining the right response to a missing person or child case.

Data Collection and National Archives

How information about missing persons is collected and stored is a key focus. Italy utilizes a unified national model, the RISC model, for data collection, which is then entered into the national RISC archive. This detailed form captures personal data, physical/mental conditions, potential problems (family, economic, judicial), mood, online activity, financials, relationships, the specific circumstances of disappearance, risk conditions, and potential reasons. Spain uses a shared database among law enforcement called PDyRH (Missing Persons and Unidentified Human Remains System), compiling police reports nationally and internationally with comprehensive personal data, photos, fingerprints, physical characteristics, and DNA. In Greece, statistics are kept by the Hellenic Police and published online, with an internal system (Police Online) for current cases not accessible to the public. Portugal’s data is collected by the Judicial Police and is not publicly accessible. Norway compiles information in the KRIPOS archive based on an ante-mortem report, typically filled three months after disappearance, including detailed personal and medical information and DNA collected from relatives.

Standardized forms for initial alerts are common. Portugal’s police use a form, while an organization, APCD, employs different forms depending on the case classification (parental abduction, kidnapping, escape, lost, injured). In Greece, “The Smile of the Child” organization uses five different forms, including a Missing Alert Protocol modelled on the UK’s Herbert Protocol for high-risk individuals.

Legal Frameworks and Investigative Tools

Specific national regulations for missing persons cases vary. Portugal has no specific law, with criminal aspects following the Code of Criminal Procedure. Norway also lacks specific national laws, relying instead on a circular letter from the Prosecutor General outlining national practices, though its use in practice can vary by police department. Proceedings can be administrative, legal, or mixed, often involving judicial police taking the initial complaint and coordinating first checks. If foul play or involuntary disappearance is suspected, a judicial investigation is opened.

Modern investigative tools are crucial. DNA analysis is highlighted as a vital tool in Italy, with a national database for missing persons, unidentified bodies, and criminal offenders, designed to be in tune with other European databases through a treaty for data sharing. DNA is collected for missing persons in specific criteria cases, such as alarming situations, potential victims of crime, those with cognitive issues, or if they may be in danger. Portugal also uses DNA in criminal proceedings and for body identification, although there is public hesitation regarding storing DNA samples. Greece utilizes mobile phone location tracking in life-threatening situations, which is permissible without prior consent of the subscriber or user by requesting information from service providers. However, accessing data from web services and social media is more complex, often requiring judicial consultation, especially with foreign companies due to strict privacy rules unless there’s a direct risk to life.

At the EU level, systems like the Schengen Information System (SIS) store DNA profiles of missing persons and their relatives for identity confirmation. The Hague Convention addresses international parental child abduction, providing a framework for signatory countries to collaborate to achieve the prompt return of children under 16 who have been wrongfully removed or retained. INTERPOL Yellow Notices are issued globally to help locate missing persons or identify individuals unable to identify themselves. Analysis of Yellow Notice data shows that among the LOST2 project countries surveyed, Italy and Spain have the highest numbers of active notices, with a significant proportion of these relating to individuals over 50 years old.

Prevention and Awareness Efforts

Raising public awareness and implementing prevention campaigns are recognized as important aspects of addressing the phenomenon. In Portugal, the APCD has launched several campaigns. Greece’s “The Smile of the Child” organization is particularly active, implementing a program called “Ducky Goes” in kindergarten and primary schools to teach children safety skills in case they lose orientation or are unable to find their caregiver. They also run “MISSING ALERT HELLAS” for at-risk adults and organize extensive training for police, prosecutors, coast guard, and fire brigade with international partners. Developing effective campaigns involves defining the purpose, identifying the target audience, creating materials, planning dissemination, and evaluating their impact. Interestingly, interviews conducted in Italy for the survey did not report such specific campaigns.

The Role of the Expert in Research

Handling missing persons cases effectively requires specific skills and knowledge. The survey touches upon the professionals involved, such as the judicial police officer in Italy who collects initial reports and coordinates first searches. The project also defines a framework for an “Expert in the Research of Missing People and Children,” highlighting the importance of individuals with competencies to collect and analyse data, perform risk assessments, manage relationships with families and authorities, utilize technology, and coordinate specialists. These experts play a crucial role in supporting investigations, collecting and evaluating information, and providing assistance to affected families, including psychological support. Their skills include using digital tools for data management and analysis, evaluating information accuracy and reliability through cross-verification, and structuring clear reports.

Conclusion

The LOST 2 Project’s National Profile Survey paints a detailed picture of the varied approaches and challenges in addressing missing persons phenomena across Europe. From diverse legal definitions and classification systems to different data collection methods, investigative tools like DNA analysis and phone tracking, and dedicated efforts in prevention and professional training, the survey highlights both national specificities and common threads in the ongoing effort to find missing individuals and support their families. The increasing number of cases in some areas, particularly involving vulnerable populations like minors and the elderly, underscores the continued importance of this work and the need for effective, coordinated strategies and skilled professionals to manage these complex and sensitive situations.

»»» Download the dossier from our website: https://lost.team/

Categories: news
2022-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000087044

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

© 2022 – LOST2 Project
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Massimo Pici

SIULP

Massimo Pici is the Provincial General Secretary of SIULP (Italian Unitary Police Workers Union) of Perugia. During his trade union career, Pici has distinguished himself for his commitment to various issues related to the safety and protection of the rights of police workers. He has promoted training initiatives, such as courses for the search for missing persons, and has actively participated in debates on issues of social relevance, such as the proposal to establish a register for imams in Italy. Pici participated in the European project LOST 2, contributing, for the SIULP partner, to the development of the units of competence necessary for this new professional figure, underlining the importance of a European approach to the phenomenon of missing persons and the need to support the families involved.

Chara Stassinopoulou

p-consulting.gr

Chara Stassinopoulou holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management of Cultural Resources from the University of Patras, with further certification in Informatics and Computer Science. She serves as EU Projects Manager at p-consulting.gr, where she coordinates Erasmus+ projects across adult, VET, and school education, with a focus on inclusive, community-driven innovation and education.

Francisco Jiménez Navarro

SOS Desaparecidos (ES)

Francisco Jiménez Navarro is the General Coordinator of sosdesaparecidos and professional emergency medical technician. International aid worker and has participated in two armed conflicts in missions of identification of bodies of missing persons and humanitarian aid.

Barbara Coccetta

OMNIS

Barbara Coccetta, has a long experience in the the design and coordination of VET project (“Leonardo Da Vinci”, “Lifelong Learning Programme”, Erasmus Plus”) . A researcher in the VET context, she has been involved in European project management and coordination for 20 years. She is an European policy expert after a bachelor’s degree at the College of Europe in Bruges (BE) and a professional qualification professional qualification at the “Human Resources Development and EU Social Studies”. She is the reference person behalf of OMNIS Organisation for the technical coordination of the training activities providing her specific skills, her strong experience in this field and the deep knowledge acquired over the years in ECVET and EQAVET frameworks. OMNIS has provided other partner organisations with the support on the application of the over mentioned methodology based on a competence model, which takes also into account the European and national instructions in the field of the competencies framework for the definition and testing of the innovative professional in relation to the Missing People phenomenon.

Sara Sechi

Don Bosco International

Sara Sechi is the Executive Secretary of Don Bosco International – DBI. She holds a master’s degree in Law and an advanced-master in International Public Affairs. She has direct experience in non-formal education, training, intercultural learning, youth participation, inclusive leadership, and EU advocacy. She speaks Italian, English and French.

Nel Broothaerts

Child Focus Belgium

Nel Broothaerts graduated as Master in Pedagogical Sciences at the University of Ghent. In 2002, she was responsible for the development of an educational program for young children in Guatemala. After her return to Belgium, she worked within the education system for children with special needs, where she was responsible for the development of pedagogical tools for teachers. Between 2005 and 2007, Nel worked within the Youth Service as a home counsellor / parenting advisor for families in problematic parenting situations. In May 2007, she joined Child Focus and as project manager was responsible for the policy and development of prevention initiatives around e-safety. In September 2013, she became coordinator of the project team. In October 2017, she became Chief Prevention and Development Officer, responsible for all prevention initiatives, through tools, materials, education or training, and new developments in the Foundation. Since October 2022, she combines this position with the role of Deputy CEO of Child Focus.

Patrícia Cipriano

APCDV – Ass. Portuguese Association of Missing and Vulnerable Children

Patrícia de Sousa Cipriano is a lawyer and Honorary President of the Portuguese Association of Missing and Vulnerable Children (APCDV), with a career of more than 17 years dedicated to defending the rights of missing and vulnerable children. Graduated in Law from the Faculty of Law of the University of Coimbra (pre bologna), with specialization in International Family Law, she currently works as Of Counsel at the prestigious law firm LEGALWORKS – Gomes da Silva & Associados. She is a member of the Lawyers in Europe against Parental Abduction network and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Amber Alert Europe Foundation, contributing with her experience to the strengthening of legal and police cooperation at European level. She was also co-founder of the Portuguese Children’s Association (APCDV), together with Margarida Barroso, the late wife of the former President of the European Commission, José Manuel Durão Barroso. As President of APCDV, she has led several initiatives to raise awareness, research and support families, with emphasis on her intervention in emblematic cases such as the disappearance of Rui Pedro. She also participated in the Netflix documentary on the Madeleine McCann case, reinforcing her commitment to the international visibility of the cause.

Amaya Rodrigo

SOS Desaparecidos

Amaya Rodrigo is the international coordinator of SOS Desaparecidos, a nonprofit organisation that lobbies for the rights of the missing people in Spain, and aims for a European protocol and law reform that grants missing people and their families their lawful rights. SOS also provides first aid and help to the families after their loved one has gone missing, with a team of volunteer professionals, such as lawyers, therapists, criminalists, detectives. The organisation conducts extensive use of conventional and Social Media to spread awareness and to alert about individual cases.

Sarah Abel

EUROMASC

Sarah Abel is a project manager at EUROMASC and NTIM, specializing in Erasmus+ projects and European cooperation initiatives. She holds a BA (2018) and MA (2020) in political science from the University of Oslo, with a research focus on political polarization in the United States. Sarah first joined EUROMASC in 2019, contributing to various European projects through research and desk studies. She later worked as a research assistant at the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence before returning to EUROMASC in 2023 as a project manager. In this role, she is responsible for the design, coordination, and implementation of Erasmus+ projects, fostering strategic international partnerships, managing project activities, and ensuring alignment with EU policies and priorities. Fluent in Norwegian, English, Danish, and Swedish, with working comprehension of Italian, Sarah actively collaborates with international consortia to promote innovation and knowledge exchange within the Erasmus+ framework. She is dedicated to strengthening European cooperation in education, training, and research through high-impact projects.

Georgia Angelopoulou

The Smile of The Child

Georgia Angelopoulou is a psychologist currently working at “The Smile of the Child,” where she coordinates the Help & Support Lines Center. Her work focuses on crisis intervention, psychosocial support, and safeguarding vulnerable children and adults, including direct involvement in missing persons cases. She has extensive experience collaborating with municipalities, state authorities, and ministries in Greece, and regularly participates as a speaker in professional seminars and conferences on child protection and mental health. She is actively involved in the European project “Lost II – Research and Implementation,” which addresses missing children and adults, and she brings a systemic perspective to both prevention and response efforts. Her academic background includes a degree in Psychology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, further training in Rorschach testing, and ongoing specialization in Systemic Psychotherapy. Through her role, Georgia provides not only direct psychological support but also contributes to the development of effective inter-agency response mechanisms. She is passionate about promoting awareness and evidence-based practices in the field of disappearances and mental health crises.

Sandrine Pépit

Missing Children Europe

Sandrine Pépit has a background in family law and psychology. She has considerable expertise in the field of international child protection. After having worked for the Central Authority of Quebec, she joined the Permanent bureau of the Hague Conference on private international law. For more than six years, she has worked for a French public agency where she conducted analyses and research on child protection and alternative care. She is the Director of ISS France, Paré programme (a national programme to combat sexual exploitation of children) and of 116000 Enfants Disparus, where she runs the hotline for missing children in France. In June 2021 she took up he role of Vice President of Missing Children Europe.

Constantino Kounas

ARLAB Basilicata

Constantino Kounas is LOST2 project coordinator on behalf of the lead partner ARLAB Basilicata.

Expert in managing European funding, specialized in vocational education and training, adult education, networking and coordination of transnational partnerships. Graduated in Economics and Business, he has a professional qualification as a business consultant expert in subsidized financing for businesses. He coordinates European projects and has collaborated with public bodies and European institutions for over 20 years.

Susana Nogueira

EfVET European Forum of Technical and Vocational Education and Training

Susana Nogueira is a Policy/Project Officer at EfVET since 2022. She has a degree in Criminal Psychology and an experience of 10 years in the coordination and management of Erasmus+ funded projects focused on an array of sectors, including Social Economy, Defence, Culture and Creative Industries, Inclusion and Technology. Moreover, as Policy Officer, Susana has been deeply involved in the development of documentation and tools aimed to advocate for the innovation and quality of Vocational Education and Training.

Susana also worked as Victims’ Support Technician, assisting victims of crimes (domestic violence and other forms of abuse) by providing them with psychological, social and legal support, and as volunteer psychologist at a local civil protection unit in Lisbon (Portugal), trained to provide psychological first aid and support to victims of accidents and catastrophes.