World Day in Support of Victims of Torture Observed

Kathmandu. The World Day in Support of Victims of Torture is being observed today in various countries around the world with various programs, with the aim of obtaining the commitment of the world community to the complete end of torture, the protection of victims, access to justice, and rehabilitation.

The United Nations has emphasized that the world community must be committed to the protection of torture victims and justice. In accordance with the decision of the UN General Assembly in a resolution passed on December 12, 1997, to observe every year on June 26 as the 'International Day in Support of Victims of Torture', this day began to be observed with the aim of completely eradicating torture by effectively implementing the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

According to the UN, torture is a serious crime under international law. All relevant international legal documents completely prohibit torture, and it cannot be justified under any circumstances or pretext. The planned or widespread practice of torture is considered a crime against humanity.

Since its inception, the UN has been condemning torture as one of the most heinous acts that humans inflict on humans. This day has called on UN member states, civil society, human rights organizations, and citizens worldwide to unite in support of the millions of people who have suffered torture and are still forced to endure it.

No pretext for torture is acceptable. Torture destroys the victim's personality and assaults the dignity and respect inherent in every human being. Although completely prohibited by international law, incidents of torture are still occurring in various parts of the world.

According to UN Special Rapporteur on Torture Alice Jill Advani, due to the highest number of armed conflicts in the world since 1945, there has been an increase in incidents of torture and other inhuman treatment. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, there are currently about 100 armed conflicts ongoing worldwide, and with conflicts, incidents of torture and other inhuman treatment tend to increase.

Even if torture or cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment is sought to be justified by citing national security, border protection, or any other reason, international law does not accept it under any circumstances. The UN has stated that the impact of torture is not limited to one person but can perpetuate the cycle of violence for families, communities, and generations.

The United Nations has stated that prompt, effective, and specialized services are needed for the rehabilitation of torture victims, and that rehabilitation centers and organizations operating worldwide are playing an important role in helping victims return to normal life.

The 'UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture' operated by the UN Human Rights Office in Geneva provides legal, social, humanitarian, psychosocial, and health services to torture victims and their families.

Established in 1981, the fund benefits human rights defenders, persons in detention, children, refugees, migrants, families of forcibly disappeared persons, indigenous communities, survivors of gender-based violence, and other vulnerable groups.

The UN has emphasized the need to bring perpetrators of torture or groups to justice, end impunity, and end or transform the structures and systems that encourage torture. Furthermore, this day has conveyed the message that a torture-free society can be built only by ensuring the rehabilitation of victims, access to justice, and full protection of human rights.

In his message on this occasion, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that perpetrators of torture should not be granted impunity for their crimes under any circumstances. He emphasized the need to end or transform the structures and systems that enable torture and called on the international community to adopt a policy of zero tolerance against torture.