UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture

Mandate

The Fund was established by General Assembly resolution 36/151 of 16 December 1981 to receive voluntary contributions from Governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals for distribution to non-governmental organizations providing humanitarian assistance to victims of torture and members of their family.

The type of humanitarian assistance provided by organizations which receive grants from the Fund consists mainly of psychological, medical, social, legal and economic assistance.

2011 marks the 30th anniversary of the Fund. On this occasion, an exhibit of artwork made by victims of torture will be held at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, from 21 to 30 June. The exhibition will present paintings, pictures, sculptures and other types of artistic expression created by the victims as part of their rehabilitation process.

The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed on 26 June.

Board of Trustees

The Fund is administrated by the Secretary General who is advised by a Board of Trustees composed of a chairman and four other members representing the five regional groups. They work in their independent capacity.

How to contribute to the Fund

Governments, non-governmental organizations and other private or public entities as well as individuals can contribute to the Fund. For information on how to contribute, you are kindly requested to contact the secretariat of the Fund.

The General Assembly and the Board have urged donors to increase their contributions, if possible, in order to provide the Board with the resources to meet the growing needs of torture victims and the members of their families.

Donors are invited to contribute annually to the Fund before the session of the Board in October of each year.

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