Comparison of Missing Children Rates by Country

Estimated annual reports of missing children (latest available data, primarily 2023-2024). Rates calculated per 100,000 population. Note: Data varies due to reporting differences; many cases are resolved quickly. Sources include ICMEC, FBI, national police reports.

Country Annual Reports Population (M) Rate per 100K
United States 375,304 341 110.1
Germany 100,000 84 119.0
India 47,000 1,428 3.3
United Kingdom 112,853 67 168.4
France 40,989 68 60.3
Australia 37,000 26 142.3
Canada 45,288 38 119.2
Italy 20,000 59 33.9
Spain 20,000 47 42.6
Russia 45,000 144 31.3
Nigeria 23,000 223 10.3

Key Insights

  • Higher rates in developed countries may reflect better reporting systems rather than actual incidence.
  • Most cases (80–99%) are resolved within 24–48 hours, often runaways or family abductions.
  • Global estimates suggest over 8 million children go missing annually, but data is inconsistent.

Sources

  • ICMEC Global Missing Children's Statistics
  • FBI NCIC 2023/2024 Data
  • Australian Federal Police 2023
  • NCRB India 2023
  • 116000 France 2023