(MENAFN)
In the aftermath of the 1992–1995 Bosnian war, which left tens of thousands missing, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Institute for Missing Persons has become a symbol of resilience and a leading example of how to address the lasting trauma of war.

Unlike many other nations that depend on temporary commissions or international assistance, Bosnia established a permanent, state-level institution dedicated to locating and identifying those who disappeared during the conflict.

So far, nearly 80% of the 32,000 individuals reported missing during the war have been located and identified — a success rate that stands out internationally. Despite this achievement, over 7,600 people remain unaccounted for, and about 1,300 unidentified human remains are currently stored in mortuaries throughout the country.

Amor Masovic, a co-founder and former director of the institute, highlighted that Bosnia began documenting missing persons as early as April 1992, just weeks into the war, recognizing the vital need for organized and detailed record-keeping.

“My advice to countries in conflict is clear: start documenting disappearances immediately, including locations and circumstances,” Masovic said, according to reports.

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