On the occasion of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, 26 June 2016: Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini

EU News 228/2016

Brussels, 25/06/2016

In 2016, the world still celebrates the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture and this sadly proves how far we are from the eradication of a practice that is inhumane and unequivocally prohibited under international law.

On this day, our thoughts go to all those around the world who have been exposed or continue to be exposed to torture, and to their families. What they have suffered no-one should have to suffer. We keep working to give victims of torture a voice and promote their right to rehabilitation and to other means of redress. We keep working to ensure that everyone is aware of the total prohibition of torture and the damage it does to individuals and society as a whole.  Allegation of torture must be investigated effectively, and perpetrators brought to justice.

States must abide by their legal obligations and take concrete action to turn their commitments into practice. The EU stays committed to keep doing its utmost to contribute to the achievement of the universal ratification and implementation of the Convention against Torture by the year 2024.

For the EU the fight against torture is at the heart of its priorities, as set out in the EU Action Plan on Human Rights 2015 – 2019. Through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, the EU funds a number of activities to prevent torture, increase accountability, fight impunity and rehabilitate victims of torture. Together with civil society, we support awareness raising campaigns, the development of prevention and monitoring mechanisms as well as rehabilitation centres to help victims and their families to rebuild their lives. Civil society organisations play an indispensable role in combatting torture and raising awareness, including in sometimes very difficult situations and at high costs, risking their own safety and lives.

Political will and joint, global work is still required to effectively prevent and ultimately eradicate torture. The EU continues to be at the forefront of this work.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160625_01_en.htm

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