Brazil Human Rights Commission approves national missing persons alert system

The Brazilian Human Rights Commission (CDH) has approved the creation of a national real-time alert and notification system to assist in locating missing persons. Known as the National Alert and Notification System for Missing Persons (Sanpd), the proposal modifies the existing National Policy for Searching for Missing Persons.

Under the approved substitute text, search efforts must begin immediately after a disappearance is registered with public security authorities, regardless of the cause or the time elapsed. This expansion covers all types of disappearances, including voluntary, involuntary, and criminal cases. The proposal also establishes that authorities who fail to comply with these rules without justification may face administrative penalties and potential criminal liability.

The Executive Branch will be tasked with creating specific protocols for different disappearance modalities, ensuring coordination with health networks, social assistance, and protection services for children, adolescents, the elderly, and people with disabilities.