Task 1.
An analysis of the scale, dynamics and geography of disappearances as well as their social and psychological aspects
Implemented by – the ITAKA Foundation – Centre for Missing People
Duration – 1.01.2019 – 30.06.2020
Status – Executed
A detailed analysis of the phenomenon was made on the basis of statistical data provided by the Centre for Missing Persons of the General Police Headquarters and information gathered by the ITAKA Foundation. Data from 2000 – 2017 were analysed. The examination covered 342 000 search cases registered during the study period. Statistical analyses focused on the identification of the main factors differentiating the scale and dynamics of disappearances.
Task 2.
An analysis of legal and institutional aspects of search for missing people
Implemented by – The University of Warsaw
Duration – 1.04.2019 – 30.06.2020
Status – Executed
The analysis of legal solutions adopted in Poland was based on the time criterion (2000-2017). The current legal status was analysed with respect to search procedures and principles of cooperation between competent agencies in Poland and abroad. Operation of numerous state institutions and NGOs involved in the national system of search for missing persons was also examined.
Task 3.
An analysis of criminological and victimological aspects of disappearances
Implemented by – The University of Warmia and Mazury
Duration – 1.04.2019 – 30.06.2020
Status – Executed
The verification of the study hypotheses required a detailed analysis. First, representatives of the team carried out a theoretical examination of the disappearance phenomenon. Afterwards, they analysed the scope of the problem in Poland. In the next stage, the team held a number of meetings and consultations with various experts both in Poland and abroad, e.g. in Croatia. The conclusions will be presented in a monograph, manuals and project report (the recommended search model).
Task 4.
An inventory of missing people search methods and identification of persons of unknown identity and unidentified corpses
Implemented by – The University of Warmia and Mazury, the ITAKA Foundation – Centre for Missing People
Duration – 1.04.2019 – 30.06.2020
Status – Executed
The study used ITAKA Foundation’s long-term data on unidentified human remains found in Poland. Current and past (2010-2017) provisions of the Polish law were also analysed. Conclusions of the analysis of legal regulations, official review and control documents and empirical studies confirmed the need to modify the current model of search for missing people. The process of identification of individuals of unknown identity and unidentified corpses was also reviewed.
Task 5.
An analysis of ‘good practices’ based on experiences of other countries to determine effective methods to prevent disappearance and social exclusion
Implemented by – The University of Warsaw, the ITAKA Foundation – Centre for Missing People
Duration – 1.04.2019 – 30.06.2020
Status – Executed
An analysis of experiences of other countries, including social exclusion prevention, was used to develop an effective model of search for missing persons in Poland. Solutions adopted in 17 countries were examined and provided comprehensive comparative material for further work.