Latin American Initiative for the Identification of the “Disappeared”
Genetics and Human Rights

The Latin American Initiative for the Identification of “Disappeared” people (LIID or ILID in Spanish) focuses on finding a solution for the identification of the remains of thousands of people disappeared in Latin America for political reasons. Genetic projects that processed large amounts of samples were effectively used to bring solace to the thousands of families of victims from the conflict in the Balkans and the attack against the Twin Towers. We believe it is imperative to use these scientific advances in resolving similar problems in other parts of the world, such as Latin America.

LIID currently includes three projects by three Latin American, non governmental organizations that apply forensic sciences, mainly forensic anthropology, to the investigation of human rights violations: the Guatemala Forensic Anthropology Foundation (FAFG), the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team (EAAF) and the Peruvian Forensic Anthropology Team (EPAF). Considering the existence of the common need in the region, it is highly beneficial to establish a Latin American Initiative where experiences are shared, in order to minimize errors and optimize human and financial resources.
In the United States, the Washington Office for Latin America (WOLA) is providing major support to LIID by helping facilitate contacts with donors and policymakers. The organizations that form LIID are profoundly grateful for their assistance.