All data from the ICRC and relevant RCRC National Societies
Family reunification is the process of reuniting family members who have been involuntarily separated during armed conflict or other situations of violence, natural or man-made disasters, international migration, or other hardships. This process is set in motion after contact has been restored and family members have formally agreed to the reunification, and when permitted by security conditions. It takes the following factors into account: the situation of the most vulnerable family members, the best interests of the persons concerned, the relevant international and national legislation and the requirements of the specific situation.
A term used for calls made by mobile, satellite or video phones in order to restore and maintain contact between separated family members. As it is a direct and rapid means of restoring family links, telephone calls should be considered when first contacting relatives to reassure them. In some cases, providing more phone credits to beneficiaries or assistance in reloading their cell phones will enable families to get back in touch. Video-teleconference calls may be used as a temporary substitute for family visits to places of detention.
Tracing of individuals - A term used to describe all activities related to the search for missing family members. These activities are undertaken by the ICRC and National Societies in response to families’ right to know what has happened to their missing relatives. The various tracing measures and procedures – such as specific mechanisms for tracing, field tracing, consulting authorities, and making enquiries - should be adapted to the cultural context, target the most vulnerable groups and guarantee systematic follow-up of pending cases. In situations not related to a conflict or natural disaster, the Movement may process tracing requests on compassionate grounds, but the reasons for conducting the search should be strictly humanitarian. The sought person, when located, should be asked whether he or she wishes to inform the enquirer of his or her fate and location; and that decision must be respected.
A formal enquiry collected and followed up by the ICRC or a National Society when a person formally requests that a missing relative's whereabouts are traced and/or that the relative is offered protection and assistance. Tracing requests have the purpose to inform the enquirer of the whereabouts of a family member, restore contact and to locate the most vulnerable individuals in order to assist and protect them.
Within a number of National Societies involved in RFL activities. Tracing services help to restore or maintain contact between members of families separated as a consequence of armed conflict or other situations of violence, natural disasters or any other situations requiring a humanitarian response.
To learn more, go to the Family Links Website.