REWIND: Speak up, says EU

Avinesh Gopal
Wednesday, June 27, 2012

THE European Union (EU) has called on all States to implement fully the absolute and non-derogable prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

EU's High Representative Catherine Ashton reaffirmed the EU's commitment to the prevention and eradication of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and to the full rehabilitation of torture victims in all parts of the world.

Her comments came as the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture was celebrated yesterday.

"This day is an occasion to speak up against this abhorrent violation of human rights and human dignity," Ms Ashton said.

"Torture is not only a tragedy for the victims, it is also degrading and injuring those who perpetrate it and to societies which tolerate such outrage.

"The absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment is unequivocally established under international law.

"No culture of impunity is acceptable," she said in an EU statement. She said recalling resolution 66/150 adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 19, 2011, the EU reiterated its principled condemnation of all forms of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

She said it included through intimidation, which were and shall remain prohibited at any time and in any place whatsoever and could never be justified.

"The EU calls upon all States to adopt a gender sensitive approach in the fight against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, paying special attention to gender-based violence.

"The EU takes this opportunity to commend the persistent efforts by the many NGOs (non-government organisations) and individuals working tirelessly for the prevention of torture and to alleviate the suffering of victims, as well as mobilising public opinion on this important day in the UN calendar.

"We must all stand together to make the world free from torture," Ms Ashton said.