An exploration into why there is an overrepresentation of BAME people in missing person cases

The overrepresentation of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) people in missing person cases is an issue that is not understood within society and has largely been neglected within academic literature to date. This study, therefore, aims to explore why this overrepresentation might exist by obtaining the views and opinions of 24 professionals (including police officers) working within the field of missing people. The study used a qualitative, exploratory method and an anonymous online survey containing a series of open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was performed on the data, and three main themes were identified; the first related to the idea that cultural issues within BAME communities increase the propensity for BAME people to go missing; the second related to how certain vulnerabilities, such as being an asylum seeker, are more likely to affect BAME people and therefore increase their propensity to go missing; the third alluded to how BAME overrepresentation may depend on geographical location. These themes, and associated sub-themes, provide insights regarding how best to address the overrepresentation of BAME people in missing person cases. For example, the need to develop preventative measures and educational programmes that target BAME communities, and the need for better representation of BAME people in relevant support services. Overall, the findings make a significant contribution to understanding the overrepresentation of BAME people in missing person cases and have important implications for organisations that work with missing people and BAME communities.