Exploring the Memorialization and Organized Crime Nexus: A Transformative Approach to Addressing Disappearances in Contexts of Criminal Governance

This panel delves deep into the issue of disappearances within contexts of criminal governance in Mexico, with a particular focus on the digital realm. The panellists will first introduce the academic debate on territorial and social control by criminal groups in Latin America, placing emphasis on their digital dimension. Then, they will elaborate on the collaborative project "El Bosque de la Esperanza" (The Forest of Hope) as a case study. The panel will showcase how resistance and resilience can emerge and be mediated through digital spaces within the context of criminal governance.

"El Bosque de la Esperanza" represents a novel initiative that not only aims to create dignified spaces of memory for the victims of enforced disappearance in Mexico but also to chart new paths of resistance, resilience, and the initiation of transitional justice efforts. In the shadow of an alarming official count, with over 110,000 individuals officially registered as missing or disappeared, this discussion confronts the interwoven challenges of disappearances, organized crime, and political violence. These issues lie at the core of the unveiling of a virtual memorial, initiated through innovative digital and creative methodologies.

Attendees of the panel will have a unique opportunity to engage interactively with our immersive, decentralised memorial, gaining a profound understanding of its significance. Additionally, we will share a small excerpt video as part of a large visual output accompanying the project, providing valuable insights into the research process that propels the project. Moreover, it will be discussed how the project aspires to humanize the victims and foster empathy among a broader non-affected audience.

We look forward to your attendance!