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About
International law prohibits torture at all times and in all places, even in situations of armed conflict or public emergency. There are no exceptions. States have made unprecedented efforts towards establishing frameworks for implementing the prohibition of torture. Yet, today torture and ill-treatment are far from being eradicated, and continue to be practiced with impunity throughout the world. Torture victims or their relatives hardly ever receive the redress, reparation and rehabilitation they are entitled to under international law.
Our work
The eradication of torture worldwide was one of the major commitments taken up by the United Nations only a few years after its establishment. UN Human Rights takes part in this commitment by supporting the work of the Special Rapporteur on torture, the Committee against Torture, and the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture. We also support the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, which assists victims of torture and their family members to rebuild their lives.
Current focus
Who else is involved
Committee against Torture (CAT)
This committee, made up of 10 independent experts, monitors implementation of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment by its State parties.
Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
The UN Commission on Human Rights established this mandate in 1985, appointing an expert to examine questions relevant to torture. The mandate, extended for 3 years in 2020, covers all countries, whether or not a State has ratified the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT)
The mandate of the SPT is threefold: to visit detention places, to advise and assist States parties regarding the establishment and functioning of their National Preventive Mechanisms, and to co-operate with other organizations and institutions working to strengthen protections against torture and ill-treatment.
UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
The Fund, established by the General Assembly in 1981, assists victims of torture and their family members to rebuild their lives, providing immediate and accessible remedies. The Fund channels contributions globally to civil society organizations providing legal, social, psychological, medical and other services.
News and statements
Publications
Publications
