Together against Torture - 26 June 2010

International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims

26United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

2010JuneFor a World Without Torture

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26The International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Vic-tims (IRCT) is an independent, international health pro-fessional organisation, which promotes and supports the rehabilitation of torture victims and works for the prevention of torture worldwide. The vision of the IRCT is a world that values and accepts shared responsibility for the eradication of torture.

The views expressed in this report can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the above institu-tions. The country activities portrayed in this report are based on the submission of reports as received from campaign participants.

The production of this report was made possible thanks to financial support from the Oak Foundation, the Min-istry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and the European Commission.

The IRCT’s Global Report on the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – 26 June 2010

2010 © International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT)

Text: Scott McAusland ([email protected]) and Sune SegalLayout: Andreas Reventlow and Fábio PereiraFront (in order of appearance): MATESO, Kenya; RCT, Den-mark; MFH, Germany; PRAWA, Nigeria; TIHV-HRFT, Turkey; SAVE Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo; FAVL, Arme-nia; RCTV Memoria, Moldova; VI.TO, Italy; SAP-GL, Burundi

ISSN 1997-6275

+45 3376 0600+45 3376 [email protected]

Phone FaxE-mailWebsite

Together against Torture

Borgergade 13P.O. Box 90491022 Copenhagen KDenmark

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26Table of Contents5 Foreword from the President

IRCT President Dr Mohamud Said discusses the impor-tance of the UN Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Campaign Materials 2010The IRCT developed numerous products for the 2009 campaign

Campaign activities worldwideA country-by-country look at how organisations celebrated 26 June this year

Global readingThe president and Secretary-General ask all citizens to help eradicate torture

Campaign activities worldwide, cont.A country-by-country look at how organisations celebrated 26 June this year

UNCAT ratification statusSee which states have ratified the United Nations Convention against Torture

Join us next yearLearn how to be part of the global movement against torture in 2011

How to support the IRCTSee how you can help ensure that torture survi-vors and their families receive the help they need

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IRCT in BrusselsThe IRCT Secretary-General addresses members of the European Parliament in Brussels

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4Turkey

SOHRAM-CASRA in Turkey commenced its campaign with a picnic for torture victims and their families. Some 1500 participants enjoyed Turkish, Kurdish, Arab, Syrian, Armenian and Turkmen music, folk dance contests, games, discussions and of course food.

“

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They encompass defenceless civilians raped by rebel as well as government troops – an increasingly common meth-od of torturing whole communities in eastern and central Africa; members of marginalised ethnic minorities in Asia; dissidents who speak up against oppressive regimes in the Middle East; street children in South America accused of petty crimes and brutally beaten just to “teach a lesson”; and people who simply had the bad fortune of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Their lives have been shattered and their dignity trampled upon. But they share one crucial trait: the potential to re-cover and overcome their trauma if given timely and ef-fective support. That’s what my colleagues all around the globe are working for, often at great personal risk and with meagre resources, but nonetheless making a real differ-ence to those they reach.

25 years of experience has shown us – with the words of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu – that something can be done to help those who have suffered so terribly. For 25 year we have struggled against torture, and for the right of torture survivors to rebuild their lives and have their dignity restored. As I reiterate our commitment to continue reach-ing out as far as possible to those in need, my warmest thanks and thought go out to my colleagues all around the world as I express my unfaltering belief that together, we can achieve a World Without Torture.

Dr Mohamud Said, President

Foreword from the President

To us, such a world is one where tortured men, women and children receive the care and support they need to rebuild their lives. Where torture survivors have access to real jus-tice and torturers are held accountable in a court of law. And where governments and civil society work together to prevent torture from happening.

On 26 June – the United Nations International Day in Sup-port of Victims of Torture – we pay tribute to those who have suffered the horrors of torture and reiterate our shared commitment to ending torture once and for all and supporting survivors whoever and wherever they might be. On this day, torture survivors, NGOs and concerned citizens around the world join forces in a anti-torture cam-paign spanning the entire globe, raising their voice in solidarity in a resounding NO! to torture. On the following pages you’ll find an uplifting overview of the scores of crea-tive activities which IRCT member centres and other anti-torture organisations around the world engaged in on and around 26 June 2010.

The survivors we honour come from all walks of life, and from all corners of the world. As UN Special Rapporteur Professor Manfred Nowak has tirelessly pointed out, most victims of torture are ordinary persons suspected of having committed criminal offences and belonging to disadvan-taged, discriminated and vulnerable groups – in particular the poor.

A world without torture. That’s the goal we at the IRCT have been fighting for ever since our birth 25 years ago. With 146 member cen-tres in 73 countries covering all continents we’re in a unique posi-tion to do so.

The IRCT: 25 years of fighting for a World Without Torture

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Campaign materials 2010A range of campaign tools was made available through the IRCT website to all participating or-ganisations. As in previous years, the “26 June T logo” was available to be used for campaign ma-terials such as t-shirts, stickers and posters, but brand new logos and other visual materials rep-resenting online movement ‘World Without Tor-ture’ were also made available (see next page). Other campaigning tools included fact sheets in

English, French and Spanish, a campaign kit, a collection of sample letters and press releases in English, French, Spanish and Arabic, an essay and art competition, and the movie “Ghosts”, by Morvary Samare, which was distributed for pub-lic displays. A Global Reading was prepared and all those celebrating 26 June were encouraged to use it in their events (see p. 18).

“Ghosts”, by Morvary Samare

The film “Ghosts”, which was directed by the Irani-an-Canadian documenta-rist Morvary Samare, looks at the effects of torture on individuals and their families as it follows the lives and cases of three Arab-Canadian men who were “renditioned” to and tortured in Syria and Egypt as part of Cana-da’s involvement in theso-called “War on Ter-ror”. The film featured at Montréal’s Human Rights Festival and won the Public’s Choice Award in Montreal ear-lier this year.

عالم خال من التعذيبהעולם בלי עינוייםโลกปราศจากการทารุณกรรม没有酷刑的世界دنيايی بدون شکنجه

世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상

26 June 2010 – International Day in Support of Victims of Tortureirct.org/26june




世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상DUNIA TANPA PENYIKSAAN

DAIGDIG NA WALANG LABIS NA PAGPAPAHIRAP

NJË BOTË PA TORTURË

TORTURARIK

EEN WERELD ZONDER M

ARTELING

WELT OHNE FOLTER

DOMHAN GAN CÉASADHIL MONDO SENZA TORTURA

DUKH BIN JEEVAN

UM MUNDO SEM TORTURA МИР БЕЗ ПЫТОК

EL MUNDO SIN TORTURA

VÄRLD UTAN TORTYR

IŞKENCESIZ DÜNYA

THẾ GIỚI MÀ KHÔNG BỊ TRA TẤN

LE MONDE SANS TORTURE

ŚWIAT BEZ TORTURPASAULE BEZ SPIDZINAŠANAS

MSOFLIO TSAMEBIS GARESHE

DUNIA TANPA PENYIKSAAN

ULIMWENGU BILA

MATESO








世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상ुुुु

TAKLEEF WARAI DUNIYA


2010

26 JUNE2010

7

The World Without Torture and “T” posters used in this year’s campaigncan be downloaded from www.irct.org/26June

من التعذيبعالم خال

העולם בלי עינויים

يايی بدون شکنجهدن

โลกปราศจากกา

รทารุณกรรม

没有酷刑的世界

世界ことなく拷問

고문없는 세상

26 June 2010 – International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

irct.org/26june








고문없는 세상








고문없는 세상DUNIA TANPA PENYIKSAAN


NJË BOTË

PA TORTURË

TORTURARIK

EEN WERELD ZONDER M

ARTELINGW

ELT OHNE FOLTER

DOMHAN GAN CÉASADH

IL MONDO SENZA TORTURA

DUKH BIN JEEVAN

UM MUNDO

SEM TORTURA МИР БЕЗ ПЫТОК

EL MUNDO SIN TORTURAVÄRLD UTAN TORTYR

IŞKENCESIZ DÜNYA



ŚWIAT BEZ TORTUR

PASAULE BEZ SPIDZINAŠANAS



ULIMWENGU BILA

MATESOمن التعذيبعالم خال







고문없는 세상








고문없는 세상








고문없는 세상








고문없는 세상

ुुुु


MSOFLIO

TSAMEBIS

GARESHE



26 June 2010 – International Day in Support of Victims of Tortureirct.org/26june




世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상DUNIA TANPA PENYIKSAAN



TORTURARIK

EEN WERELD ZONDER M

ARTELING

WELT OHNE FOLTER

DOMHAN GAN CÉASADHIL MONDO SENZA TORTURA

DUKH BIN JEEVAN


EL MUNDO SIN TORTURA

VÄRLD UTAN TORTYR

IŞKENCESIZ DÜNYA



ŚWIAT BEZ TORTURPASAULE BEZ SPIDZINAŠANAS



ULIMWENGU BILA

MATESO








世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상ुुुु



2010

26 JUNE2010

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2010Activities worldwideAlbaniaAlbanian Rehabilitation Centre for Trauma and Torture (ARCT)

ARCT, Albania’s only rehabilitation centre caring for victims of the past totalitarian regime in the country marked 26th June by reading the global statement. They also issued their own procla-mation and newsletter explaining torture and the mechanisms used to fight it. “On this 26 June, we pay honor to the girls and boys, women and men, whom have paid with their own life this horrible crime and also the survivors.”

ArgentinaArgentine Team of Psychosocial Work and Research (EATIP)

To mark the day, EATIP organised a conference in conjunction with the Chapter of Mental Health,

Human Rights and Torture of the Argentine As-sociation of Psychiatrists (APSA). Participants included many representatives from around the country including human rights organisations such as the Association of Former Detainees and Disappeared, social organizations such as Neighbours for Memory and Justice, members of public institutions, as well as Dr. Carlos Portillo, a psychiatrist from IRCT member centre ATYHA in Paraguay, Colombian political refugees, and the Secretary of the Embassy of the Netherlands, Ms. Peggy Vissers. Participants shared experiences and set criteria for the mental health support to people who are witnesses or complainants in tri-als being carried out across the country against those responsible for state terrorism. The con-ference was coordinated by Mariana Lagos and Silvana Bekerman, president and vicepresident of the Chapter of Mental Health, Human Rights and Torture of APSA and both working at EATIP, and by Margarita Cruz, representing the Asso-

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2010ciation of Former Detainees and Disappeared. Diana Kordon, Dario Lagos, Daniel Kersner and Lucila Edelman, founders of EATIP and of the Chapter of Mental Health, Human Rights and Torture of APSA, presented the findings at the closing table of the conference.

ArmeniaFoundation Against Violation of Law (FAVL)

On 25th of June 2010 Foundation Against Vio-lation of Law organized a conference with the theme “Without Torture” to mark the UN Interna-tional Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The aim of the conference was to raise awareness and to speak out against torture, cruel mistreat-ment and degradation of human dignity that is present all over the world, to present means of prevention of these phenomena in the Republic of Armenia, as well as to sum up the activities un-dertaken by governmental and non-governmen-tal organisations for rehabilitation of victims of torture. Participants of the conference included representatives and participants from the office of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, the Ministry of Defence of the RA,

the Ministry of Justice of the RA, the Ministry of Health of the RA, the Parliament of the RA, the International Red Cross, the local and interna-tional non-governmental organisations, medi-cal institutions, families of torture victims, the FAVL Civil Centres, embassies of different coun-tries in Armenia and others. A video by Morvary Samari called “Ghosts” that tells a story about mistreatment and torture by Canadian Security Intelligence Service on three citizens of Arabic descent was presented during the conference. In addition, the global statement was read out. The conference was followed by peaceful rally of the participants.

AustraliaAssociation of Services to Torture and Trau-ma Survivors (ASeTTS)

In Perth, Western Australia, ASeTTS in part-nership with Curtin University of Technology’s Centre for Human Rights Education (CHRE) and Amnesty International marked the 26 June by holding a Public Forum on Australia’s response to asylum seekers: ‘Driven by fairness and fact or fear and fiction?’ The Forum was well attend-

Armenia

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ed with over 200 people showing up despite the cold winter night. Speakers focused on provid-ing the Australian context in terms of asylum seekers in the international setting and also discussed the manner in which asylum seekers are treated once they have arrived in Australia, particularly in relation to the policy of mandatory detention and the recent policy of suspending the processing of refugee claims for Afghanis (6 months) and Sri Lankans (3 months).

Bangladesh Centre for Rehabilitation of Torture Survivors (CRTS)

CRTS organized a discussion meeting on 26 June 0n the Topic “Stop Torture, Save Health and Hu-manity” at the Public Library Auditorium of Tan-gail. The meeting was presided by eminent law-yer and columnist Advocate Nihar Sarker. Valiant freedom fighter and singer Mr. Elen Mullick was present as chief guest. Other guest speakers were renowned social worker Nurul Islam Badal, advocate Al Ruhi, Ahmedul Huq Siddiqi and Kazi Bahalul Huq. The whole program was compered by dramatist Talha Al Mahmud. People from dif-

ferent walks of life were present in the audience. All speakers stressed the importance of the pre-vention of torture and rehabilitation of its victims and appealed to the audience to come forward to work together to develop a movement against torture to ensure a torture free society. After the meeting a “candle lighting” was performed by the children to commemorate the day and to ex-press empathy to the victims of torture.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Association Vive Žene

As every year, Association Vive Žene celebrated the 26th June. This year Vive Žene organized dif-ferent activities including a joint picnic for all beneficiaries of the centre from different commu-nities and a magician and creative workshops for children in the centre. 45 children participated in activities in the centre. In addition, the centre organized a discussion with children about what torture means to them. Children gave different answers about torture issue from their perspec-tive.

Bosnia and HerzegovinaAustralia

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BrazilGrupo Tortura Nunca Mais - Rio de Janeiro (Never More Torture Group – Rio de Janeiro)

Grupo Tortura Nunca Mais marked the day by hosting an event with civil society organizations, including the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT), the Order of Lawyers of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro (OAB-RJ), Regional Psychology Council of Rio de Janeiro (RJ-CRP), the Network of Communities and Movements against Violence, the NGO Global Justice, the Office of Develop-ment and Human Rights (IDDH) and Center for Justice and International Law (CEJIL ). The theme chosen for discussion was “Torture Yesterday and Today: an update of violence.” Over 200 people participated in the event, which included a reading of the IRCT global statement, and the screening of two films: the OAB-RJ campaign on the missing politicians and filmmaker Rubens Pi-leggi on Torture. Also present at the event were, Elizabeth Silveira e Silva, a relative of miss-ing member of the Araguaia Guerilla and board member, and Flávia Souza, a relative of a victim of violence perpetrated by the state, who gave their testimonies. Other activities of the day in-

cluded the launch of the book ‘What remains of the Dictatorship: the Brazilian exception’, by Ed-son Teles and Vladimir Safatle (Org), Publisher Boitempo, 2010, and the exhibition of paintings by artist Margot Mello. The day was concluded with a concert by the musician and composer and violinist Bira of Vira Mansur.

Cameroon Centre for Rehabilitation and Abolition of Torture (CRAT)

On the occasion of International Day in Sup-port of Victims of Torture , CRAT, in partner-ship with the Trauma Center of Cameroon (TCC) and National Commission of Human Rights and Freedoms (CNDHL) organized companion aware-ness and free voluntary testing for HIV / AIDS, two sessions of art therapy, exhibits and a panel discussion on “a world without torture.” Ap-proximately 170 people from over 30 institutions (human rights and development organisations, ministries, churches etc) took part in the day’s events. Mainstreaming the fight against HIV / AIDS within work to rehabilitate victims of torture remains a concern, and 56 victims of torture and

Brazil Cameroon

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refugees benefited not only from a presentation on the mode of transmission, clinical manifesta-tions and strategies for the prevention of HIV / AIDS but also of free and voluntary testing for HIV / AIDS. Speeches from the panelists and the discussions that followed centred on the need to act on the root causes of the evils of torture, to educate victims and perpetrators of human rights abuses, breaking the silence and intensify the monitoring of compliance of human rights in places of detention. The day’s events received coverage in 16 print and audio-visual media.

CanadaCanadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT)

This year, the Canadian Centre for Victims of Tor-ture (CCVT) focused on the importance of rais-ing public awareness and getting people talk-ing about the issue of torture beyond June 26th. With the theme of “New Life, New Hope”, CCVT declared the month of June Victims and Survi-vors of Torture Awareness Month and organized a series of public awareness activities. Some of the activities included virtual outreach through

facebook, a panel discussion on impunity, open house, art exhibition, candle light ceremony and a tree planting ceremony in collaboration with the City of Toronto.

ChadYouth for Peace and Nonviolence Association (AJPNV)

The headquarters of AJPNV welcomed teachers, human rights campaigners, the customary chief, the district leader, the chief of the military, po-lice, district chief, politicians, media, and other representatives of civil society organizations to commemorate the day. The day began with a speech by the Secretary General after which others spoke and presented to the assembled audience. The President of AJPNV Nodjigoto Charbonnel closed the session by reading the IRCT global statement. After that guests were in-vited to visit the Centre for Training and Careers of Women Victims of Torture created by AJPNV. The day ended with a football match between two groups of women torture victims.

Canada Chad

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CroatiaRehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims (RCT) Zagreb

Over 200 people took part in a series of activi-ties organised by RCT Zagreb including work-shops for psychology students at the University of Zagreb, and workshops for schoolchildren in Dvor. The activities featured on RTL Croatia broadcasts for several days.

Denmark Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Tor-ture Victims (RCT)

Danish member centre RCT held a mini street soccer tournament in the centre of Copenhagen. It included politicians, comedians, professional soccer and handball players from AG Køben-havn, the Police, contacts from the Military Pros-ecution Service and RCT staff. RCT staff handed out brochures and manned an information tent, where they talked about the latest research in fa-langa torture and a partner programme in South Africa.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Regroupement des Mamans de Kamituga (REMAK)

REMAK organised a day of activities attended by the local authorities, military and local police and the local association members of civil soci-ety and other local leaders. They organised a march to the rhythm of local Kimbanguist band, they handed over to the State representative a dozen blankets, mattresses and two sacks of rice for the detainees at Kamituga central prison as a way of showing the population and the lo-cal authorities that prisoners have rights that should be respected. In this prison the centre feels obliged to improve detention conditions for prisoners who do not have access to toilets, wa-ter, or separate cells and where considerations of gender or age differences are not taken into account. REMAK handed over the mattresses in the presence of a prisoner who, in the name of other detainees, asked REMAK to consider their sanitation conditions under detention. After-wards they read out the IRCT Declaration before

Denmark Democratic Republic of the Congo

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carrying out games such as women’s races and bag races. The ceremonies included singing and dancing from the Balenga ethnic group in Ka-mituga. Legal texts and materials from the IRCT were distributed.

EcuadorFoundation for Integral Rehabilitation of Violence Victims (PRIVA)

The Ombudsman of Ecuador, through the “Na-tional Office for Human Rights and Nature Pro-motion – National Coordination of Education and Promotion”, with the financial support of PRIVA and the support of the National Communications Office, planned a range of activities to commem-orate the day, with the aim to sensitise, dissemi-nate and deliver communication materials, to promote respect and observance of these rights and to disseminate the work of the Ombudsman in this area nationwide. General guidelines were established at the national level for commemo-ration activities relevant to the day. These were carried out all over the country for greater impact. Several activities were carried out such as: open houses, information tents, radio programs, con-

ferences, roundtables, lectures, movies, etc. It had the participation of 20 Province Delegations and support from civil society organizations and the state. Communication materials related to 26 June were delivered to all participants at the planned events.

GeorgiaEMPATHY, The international Psycho-Rehabil-itation Centre for Victims of Torture, Violence and Pronounced Stress Impact

EMPATHY organised a conference entitled “To-gether Against Torture” which was held in Tbi-lisi on 26 June. Presentations included govern-mental agencies’ strategies on rehabilitation of war and ethnic cleansing victims in Georgia and the situation on the implementation of OPCAT in Georgia. The Declaration “Together Against Tor-ture” was made, which calls for the implementa-tion of CAT Articles, use of the Istanbul Protocol, implementation of OPCAT, as well as other prin-ciples of International Humanitarian Law, espe-cially regarding occupied territories of Georgia. The Declaration, centred on recommendations for the prevention of torture, was submitted to

Ecuador Georgia

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the President of Georgia, to the Parliament and to the Prime Minister of Georgia. An exhibition-sale of art-works of victims of torture and ethnic cleansing and women and juvenile prisoners, was organised during the Conference.

GermanyBerlin Centre for the Treatment of Torture Victims (bzfo)

bzfo hosted an Open House from 10.00 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. on 26 June during which guided tours through all the departments, including an intro-duction to the bzfo library, were offered. Work-shops were held on a range of topics including a community therapy and integration project for female migrants, internet therapy for seniors over 65 years of age of age who were trauma-tized during World War II, working with inter-preters in an intercultural setting, international projects, including treatment centers in Iraq and psychotherapeutic supportive groups for refu-gees. Among the visitors were students, judges, colleagues from hospitals and other NGOs, rep-resentatives from state authorities dealing with refugees as well as financial supporters. Some

of them stayed the entire day to be able to par-ticipate in all the scheduled presentations.

Medical Care Service for Refugees Bochum (MFH)

Medical Care Service for Refugees invited guests for a lecture given by Knut Rauchfuss - a doctor and journalist who has worked at the centre since its foundation in 1997. After the lecture there was a discussion. The centre also host-ed an all day information desk in a city square, where materials on torture and the centre were distributed.

HungaryCordelia Foundation for the Rehabilitation of Torture Victims

A play of a contemporary drama piece entitled “Tollfosztás” was organised by the Cordelia cen-tre after which the global statement was read in Hungarian by Dr. Lilla Hárdi, medical director of Cordelia Foundation. Following this the foun-dation hosted a debate between Dr. Júlia Iván - legal representative of the Hungarian Helsinki

Germany Germany

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Committee, Dr. Lilla Hárdi - medical director of the Cordelia Foundation, Dr. Kata Lénárd - psy-chologist, Rodrigó Balogh - author of the play, and Márton Illés - director of the play.

IndiaCentre for Care of Torture Victims (CCTV)

CCTV arranged a conference for people from dif-ferent sectors. The programme was graced by Prof. Malini Bhattacharya, Chairperson, West Bengal Commission for Women (WBCW); Mr. Sarfaraz Ahmed Khan (Associate Professor, Na-tional University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS). The whole programme was presided by Dr. Surendra Daga, President, CCTV and there was a focus on the Prevention of Torture Bill 2008, which has yet to become law, and on women as victims of tor-ture. In addition, a victim spoke from experience on the theme ‘justice delayed, justice denied’. Before closing the programme, Ms. Minakshi Chaudhuri, Hon, Secretary, CCTV briefed about the recent activities of the centre. T-Shirts and caps were prepared using the 26 June 2010 logo, which were distributed among the audience. On

the same day, the Taki Subcentre organised a colourful rally with a band, posters and banners. Campaign materials were distributed to make people aware of the importance of the day and of the rights of victims of torture. Meetings were held at several road junctions. At the Baharam-pur sub centre a mobile tableau was organized, which rolled across different important areas of the city. Events were covered by print and broad-cast media.

Rural Uplift Centre (RUC)

Activists from surrounding villages staged a demonstration against torture chanting slogans about domestic violence and women’s rights, and other human rights violations. They also demanded to ensure the enactment of an act in consonance with the convention against torture. Pamphlets mentioning human rights violations and demands were distributed to people watch-ing along the streets. A public meeting started with folk dance and music. Speeches were delivered by renowned speakers to an enthusiastic crowd of over 500 women.

India

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Society for Social Research, Art and Culture (SOSRAC)

Society for Social Research Art and Culture (SOSRAC) organized various cultural, sports and awareness activities, including a press confer-ence and peace march, in New Delhi on 26th June. Many torture victims and their family mem-bers participated in various cultural and sports activities. The peace march was very effective in carrying the message to the general public. This was the second time the center had organized a peace march. Torture victims and their fam-ily members from India, Myanmar, Afghanistan and Tibet, as well as local victims from national capital region, participated in large number. All preparations for this programme were done by Victims and their family members only. SOSRAC distributed pamphlets and posters in the com-munity to publicise the importance of this day and about these activities.

IndonesiaAlliance of Democracy for Papua (ALDP)

ALDP organised flower distribution at eight lo-cations with a central check point in front of the

main police station. They used the flower distri-bution to give a “fresh message to everyone” to then go on and spread the news about 26 June and local issues regarding torture to others. The day began with the reading of a petition to the Indonesian government and the setting up of a banner.

Rehabilitation Action for Torture Victims in Aceh (RATA)

The series of activities organised by RATA includ-ed an event for reflection and solidarity with the Palestinian people at the Campus al Muslim at-tended by 120 students and invited guests from NGOs, where a community kepolisoan shaped prayer. Training on the UN Convention Against Torture was given to 35 people consisting of po-lice, civil service, the council representatives of

Overview of the campaign activities continues on page 20

India Indonesia

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“The greatest threat to the fight against tor-ture remains apathy: that we silently accept that torture exists. Today, as we honour the victims and survivors of torture all over the world, let us promise that we will not silently accept that the crime of torture continues. Let us pledge to do all we can to prevent greater numbers joining their ranks.

Right now, we – the rehabilitation centres and programmes that are members of the IRCT – are jointly raising our voices across the world, reading out this statement on this

special day. Together, we are saying that we will not remain silent, and that we will contin-ue working together to bring about a World Without Torture.”

Read out by human rights defenders across the world on 26 June 2009 these words con-cluded a statement signed IRCT President Mohamud Sheikh Nurein Said and IRCT Sec-retary-General Brita Sydhoff.

The full statement is available on www.irct.org

26Global reading

International

Rehabilitation

Council for

Torture Victims

Borgergade 13

P.O. Box 9049

DK-10-22 Copenhagen K

Denmark

Tel +45 33 76 06 00

Fac +45 33 76 05 00

[email protected]

www.irct.org

CVR-No 16 70 10 33

The IRCT enjoys

consultative status

with the UN

Economic and

Social Council and

participatory status

with the Council of

Europe.

IRCT statement for a global reading on the occasion of

the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture,

26 June 2010

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today marks the UN International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture. It pro-

vides us with a time to reflect on the past, to honour the victims and survivors of

torture and to look to a better future: to a World Without Torture.

The horrific practice of torture continues to afflict people across the globe. But a

world without torture is possible. That is something we must always hold on to.

We owe it to the victims and survivors of this heinous crime around the world.

A world without torture will not become a reality until we have brought healing

to those who have been subjected to this appalling practice. Without healing,

the effects of torture are all too likely to continue within the survivors.

Each year over 100,000 survivors of torture receive treatment from IRCT member

centres. But there are many more. Together, we must work to increase our reach

in order to bring healing to the greater numbers who suffer.

In bringing about a world without torture we must work to ensure that the mecha-

nisms are in place to prevent it from happening in future. We will take a mean-

ingful step towards this when governments, the health and legal professions and

other relevant actors are committed to ensuring that all torture survivors have

access to justice.

This must include children, torture’s oft-forgotten victims. While anyone can be-

come a victim of torture, children are especially vulnerable, in particular those

countless girls and boys born into poverty and conflict.

In the context of war and police brutality children much too often find themselves

violated at the cruel hands of a torturer. Today we stress that every state has an

additional duty to ensure that there is someone to speak up on their behalf and to

protect them from this horrendous crime.


In the past year we’ve seen positive steps being taken on the long road towards a

world without torture. These steps must be celebrated. A few examples:

In Asia, only this month Pakistan ratified the United Nations Convention Against

Torture. And we’ve seen India, the world’s second most populous country and its

largest democracy, take steps to ratify the Convention.

19

26 InternationalRehabilitationCouncil forTorture VictimsBorgergade 13P.O. Box 9049DK-10-22 Copenhagen K

DenmarkTel +45 33 76 06 00Fac +45 33 76 05 00

[email protected] 16 70 10 33

The IRCT enjoys consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council and

participatory status with the Council of

Europe.

In Europe, we’ve seen the British government call for an inquiry into complicity

in torture in the so-called “War on Terror”.

In Africa, following the horrific post-election violence in Kenya, the International

Criminal Court has announced that it will initiate an investigation and to protect

witnesses.In the Americas we’ve seen Argentina successfully bring to justice the perpetra-

tors of torture from the despotic regimes of the 1970s, sending out a strong mes-

sage that there is nowhere for the perpetrators to hide.

And last but not least, at the local level the member centres of the IRCT continue

tirelessly working to help torture survivors rebuild their lives, as well as to raise

awareness and seek justice.Ladies and gentlemen,The greatest threat to the fight against torture remains apathy: that we silently ac-

cept that torture exists. Today, as we honour the victims and survivors of torture

all over the world, let us promise that we will not silently accept that the crime

of torture continues. Let us pledge to do all we can to prevent greater numbers

joining their ranks.Right now, we – the rehabilitation centres and programmes that are members of

the IRCT – are jointly raising our voices across the world, reading out this state-

ment on this special day. Together, we are saying that we will not remain silent,

and that we will continue working together to bring about a World Without Tor-

ture.

Mohamud Sheikh Nurein Said

IRCT President

Brita SydhoffIRCT Secretary-General

International

Rehabilitation

Council for

Torture Victims

Borgergade 13

P.O. Box 9049

DK-10-22 Copenhagen K

Denmark

Tel +45 33 76 06 00

Fac +45 33 76 05 00

[email protected]

www.irct.org

CVR-No 16 70 10 33

The IRCT enjoys

consultative status

with the UN

Economic and

Social Council and

participatory status

with the Council of

Europe.

IRCT statement for a global reading on the occasion of

the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture,

26 June 2010


Today marks the UN International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture. It pro-

vides us with a time to reflect on the past, to honour the victims and survivors of

torture and to look to a better future: to a World Without Torture.

The horrific practice of torture continues to afflict people across the globe. But a

world without torture is possible. That is something we must always hold on to.

We owe it to the victims and survivors of this heinous crime around the world.

A world without torture will not become a reality until we have brought healing

to those who have been subjected to this appalling practice. Without healing,

the effects of torture are all too likely to continue within the survivors.

Each year over 100,000 survivors of torture receive treatment from IRCT member

centres. But there are many more. Together, we must work to increase our reach

in order to bring healing to the greater numbers who suffer.

In bringing about a world without torture we must work to ensure that the mecha-

nisms are in place to prevent it from happening in future. We will take a mean-

ingful step towards this when governments, the health and legal professions and

other relevant actors are committed to ensuring that all torture survivors have

access to justice.

This must include children, torture’s oft-forgotten victims. While anyone can be-

come a victim of torture, children are especially vulnerable, in particular those

countless girls and boys born into poverty and conflict.

In the context of war and police brutality children much too often find themselves

violated at the cruel hands of a torturer. Today we stress that every state has an

additional duty to ensure that there is someone to speak up on their behalf and to

protect them from this horrendous crime.


In the past year we’ve seen positive steps being taken on the long road towards a

world without torture. These steps must be celebrated. A few examples:

In Asia, only this month Pakistan ratified the United Nations Convention Against

Torture. And we’ve seen India, the world’s second most populous country and its

largest democracy, take steps to ratify the Convention.

“Torture doesn’t just affect those in faraway lands”, says IRCT Secretary General to European Parliament

To mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, IRCT Secretary General Brita Syd-hoff was invited to address members of the European Parliament in Brussels on 23rd June 2010. Read the full text of Ms Sydhoff’s speech on www.irct.org

You, distinguished Members of the Europe-an Parliament, have a crucial role to play in providing the oversight, accountability and democratic legitimacy crucial to the Europe-an Union.

Instruments such as the Guidelines for EU Policy towards Third Countries on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment should be consist-ently applied and promoted to strengthen

the anti-torture work carried out by the Eu-ropean Union beyond its borders. Close col-laboration between EU bodies and local civil society organisations is crucial for the suc-cess of such work.

However, torture doesn’t just affect those in far away lands. Torture survivors also live among us. The next time you walk down the street it is most likely you will pass victims of torture. Our general assessments suggest

“

IRCT in Brussels

that at least 20 – 25 per cent of refugees and asylum seekers in the European Union are survivors of torture. The next time you walk down the main street of any European city, look around you. He may have been tortured because of his sexual orientation, religious belief or political opposition. She may have been sexually tortured as part of warfare.

Europe often lets these people down when its actions fall short of its ideals. The right to

rehabilitation for torture victims is enshrined in international law, yet all too often the funding for rehabilitation is lacking. The pain of the torture continues unabated, within the borders of our safe and prosperous Union, due to the lack of funding to meet legal ob-ligations.

”

IRCT Secretary General Brita Sydhoff addressing members of the European Parliament. To her left is Mauro Palma, President of the European Committee

for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), and to her right is Keith Best, Chief Executive of the Medical Foundation in London, one of the IRCT member centres.

22

the people, NGOs and students. This was done in collaboration with a network of anti-torture organizations from central highlands (JAPI). Law and conflict resolution training was also given to the local council. Finally, RATA organ-ised a peaceful campaigning march around the city to distribute brochures and liaise with the public. To enliven this event it was supported by performance art drum bands and a clown. This event was attended by 150 participants, consist-ing of representatives of eight NGOs, students and children side-by-side.

IraqTreatment and Rehabilitation Center for Vic-tims of Torture (TRC)

TRC organised activities attended by NGOs and relevant governmental institutes as well as by their clients. Among the most prominent of their activities were a play about the effects of torture and the issuing of a declaration condemning ag-gression by the authorities in Basra against the participants in a recent demonstration.

Italy Hospitality and Care for Victims of Torture, Italian Council for Refugees (CIR-VI.TO.)

For the celebration of 26th June, CIR- VI.TO. or-ganised a variety of activities. Several interviews for national TV and radio were given by CIR-VI.TO. staff on the need forpublic support against torture. The main event for the 26th June, was held at Teatro Argentina and included an intro-duction to the meaning of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, and the needs and rights of torture survivors in general and a presentation of the project VI.TO. Hospitality and Care of Victims of Torture. The audience was also treated to a theatre performance entitled “Lampedusa, mon amour”, the final result of the VI.TO. theatre rehabilitation workshop, freely in-spired by the Aeschylus tragedy “Suppliants”. In addition there were two screenings: the IRCT film Let’s erase torture and a new film present-ing the testimonies against torture that an im-portant Italian writer, Andrea Camilleri, together with Moni Ovadia, a well known Italian musician and theatre performer, gave during their visits

Iraq Italy

23

to the theatre rehabilitation workshop of Vi.To. The audience also enjoyed a performance of folk and traditional Italian music. The event of 26th June was a great success. More than 600 peo-ple of people attended the theatre performance many local organizations and NGOs participated as well.

KenyaMwatikho Torture Survivors Organization (MATESO)

MATESO organised a ranged of activities from 24 – 29 June in which over 1100 people partici-pated. The events were covered by national tel-evision and radio. A session of Civic Education on the Bills of rights, legislation on torture in Kenya, the international conventions on torture and the use of Istanbul protocol were organised by the centre, as was a photographic exhibition. The activities also included the distribution of materials, processions in three locations on the 26th June itself and a memorial service for those killed by the military and militias. Certificates were awarded to the best performers in prison

and police departments and the activities con-cluded with the presentation of a survey on tor-ture in detention.

KosovoKosovo Rehabilitation centre for Torture Vic-tims (KRCT)

The Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Vic-tims (KRCT), in partnership with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), organized a conference in order to celebrate the International Day in support of Torture Victims, on the 30th of June 2010 in Vila Germia in Pristi-na. The purpose of this event was to discuss the future prospects of the independent monitoring of human rights standards in places of detention in Kosovo. The contributions of the speakers as well as the debates focused on the establish-ment in Kosovo of a mechanism similar to the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) foreseen in the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and other Cruel, In-human or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT). Around fifty representatives of the main actors and stakeholders in the field of the

Kenya

24

monitoring of human rights standards in places of detention in Kosovo attended the conference.

LebanonKhiam Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture (KRC)

KRC organized a range of activities over several days to mark the 26th June. A Social, Psychological and Medical Day for Iraqi refugees in Baalbeck was held which included training to reinforce the entrepreneurial skills of the refugees. The centre also held a press con-ference, in the presence of the Iraqi Consulate in Lebanon, a group of Iraqi refugees and local NGOs, where they presented live testimonies about the miserable conditions of the refugees and presented a film that reveals their struggles. A workshop on domestic violence was held as was a workshop entitled “Women in Lebanese Prisons: Reality and Fate”. On June 18, KRC or-ganised a Medical, Social, and Psychological Day in Baabda Prison. During this day, the doctors of Khiam Center provided examinations, medicines and health recommendation to 72 female prison-

ers. The centre also organized a sit-in in front of the International Red Cross Headquarters in soli-darity with the Palestinian and Arab detainees in Israeli prisons. In addition, Khiam Center is-sued and distributed brochures, pamphlets and flyers to raise awareness against torture and broadcasted an announcement against enforced disappearance and torture on the radio station Sawt el Shaab.

Restart Center for Rehabilitation of Victims of Violence and Torture

Restart Center for Rehabilitation of Victims of Violence and Torture with the collaboration of Al-Karama, CLDH, ALEF organized a roundtable with the title “2000- 2010 Lebanon has signed and ratified The Convention against Torture And The Optional Protocol to the Convention..... But?” About 35 persons from different NGO’Ss (Restart, Al-Karama, CLDH, ALEF, Pinacle, Am-nesty, Ajem, Mirsad, OHCHR) in addition to a number of Judges, lawyers, forensic doctors and human rights activists were present in the round table and discussed many related issues.

Lebanon Kosovo

25

MexicoColectivo Contra la Tortura y la Impunidad (CCTI)

A week before 26 June CCTI published the book TORTURA – Pensamiento y Acción del Colectivo Contra la Tortura y la Impunidad (TORTURE – Thoughts and Action of the Collective Against Torture and Impunity) at the cultural centre Ca-sona de Juárez in Acapulco. The event enjoyed extensive media converage. It was followed by a roundtable discussion on June 25th organ-ised jointly with the Comité de Liberación 25 de Noviembre entitled ‘Reflections about torture in Mexico and Oaxaca’ and held at the Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca. On June 25th, CCTI spoke about the psychosocial impact of torture and the situation of torture in Mexico at the con-ference Torture – a Reality in Mexico held in Casa de la Cultura in Reynosa and organised by the Centro de Estudios Fronterizos y Promoción de los Derechos Humanos. On 26 June CCTI made use of the IRCT 26 June 2010 global reading.

MoldovaRehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims – “Memoria”

On 17 June RCTV “Memoria” led a rally in front of the Russian Embassy in Chisinau, demanding support for the parents of Mr Ilie Cazac, a man tortured by the Russia-supported authorities of the separatist province of Transnistria, accused of espionage and treason. From 18 to 20 June RCTV held the summer camp “Know your Rights” for persons tortured during the post-election civ-il unrest of April 2009. Among other things the participants learned how to talk to the media about the issue of torture in Moldova. The camp concluded with a press conference resulting in several items in the national media. On 24 June RCTV held a press conference for 15 journalists together with Amnesty Moldova, the Moldova Institute for Human Rights and Promolex, de-manding the Moldovan government provide re-habilitation to torture victims and work to pre-vent torture and combat impunity. On 25 June RCTV held an Open Doors Day that included an exhibition of works by its beneficiaries and the screening of the documentary film Ghosts: A

Moldova

26

portrait of life after torture” (see also p. 6). On 26 June RCTV led the event “Torture-free zone” in a park in central Chisinau, handing out anti-torture campaign materials to passers-by and collecting signatures in support of individual tor-ture victims. The centre also initiated the mara-thon “Let’s build together” to collect funds for the building of new premises for its work.

MoroccoMedical Association for Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (AMRVT)

On 26 June AMRVT held a celebratory evening for over 150 people, including many torture sur-vivors. The evening comprised the screening of a new video presenting AMRVT as well as musi-cal entertainment and an exhibition of paitings and photos. The event was reported by 2M TV, a state-owned TV channel with national coverage.

NepalCentre for Victims of Torture Nepal (CVICT)

On 26 June CVICT held a ‘Health on wheels’ camp at Sindupalchowk Prison where it donated

a 1000 litre water tank, as prisoners there had no means to store potable water. In addition, prisoners received medical and psychosocial support, and cases of torture were documented. CVICT staff briefed prisoners on their right to freedom from torture and encouraged prisoners who had experienced torture to utilise its serv-ices once released. The prison’s personnel were informed about the impact of torture and mini-mum standards to be observed with regard to the treatment of prisoners. In parallel CVICT held a dicussion forum at the National Women’s Com-mission focusing on lobbying for the ratification of OPCAT and the immediate enactment of a new law criminalising torture. Among the 260 partici-pants were prisoners, prison personnel, repre-sentatives of NGOs, political parties, the police and the National Human Rights Commission. All of the activities were covered by national media.

New ZealandRefugees As Survivors New Zealand (RASNZ)

On 26 June over 150 people attended an event at the National Refugee Centre at Mangere to observes World Refugee Day and World Without

Morocco

27

Torture. The Minister of Health, Hon Dr Jonan-than Coleman, planted a Kauri tree. The New Zealand Kauri, one of the largest, most ancient, and longest-lived trees in the world is symbolic of new life, growth, survival and kia ora (life).

Palestinian TerritoryGaza Community Mental Health Programme (GCMHP)

On 24 June GCMHP and UNHCR Gaza organised a joint conference entitled “Together against Torture” attended by governmental and NGO representatives as well as news agencies. Mr. Curt Goering, director of UNHCR Gaza, reviewed some of the methods of torture used against Pal-estinians in Israeli interrogation centres. He said that human rights organisations had document-ed several cases of torture by Palestinian police. Dr. Maher Al Houli from the Islamic University noted that Islam prohibits torture and guaran-tees fundamental human rights. Journalist Fathi Sabah emphasised the importance of the media in exposing torture and the importance of rais-ing the awareness of journalists of their role in this regard. Sobhia Jumaa from the Independent

Commission for Human Rights said the Palestin-ian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) received in 2009 some 502 complaints regarding cases of torture. Mr. Hamdi Shakoura, PCHR, presented a recent study documenting cases of torture as well as torture methods commonly used in the Palestinian Occupied Territories. Mr. Mahmoud Abu Rahma’ from the Al-Mezan Center for Human Rights highlighted the experience of Palestinian civil society organisations in fighting torture at local and international level. Mr. Abed Al Naser Ferwana, an ex-detainee and independent ex-pert on prisoners issues, spoke about the condi-tions of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons and criticised the lack of attention by the media to exposing torture. Referring to her own experi-ence Dr. Mariam Abu Daka from the Palestinian Developmental Studies’ Center discussed the conditions of female Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons and after their release; the meth-ods of torture used against her and all other male and female detainees in the prison; and the resulting psychosocial disorders. Finally, Dr. Ahmed Abu Tawahina, GCMHP’s Director-Gener-al, concluded that torture has tremendous psy-chological effects on the individual, the family and the whole community and spoke about GC-

Nepal Palestinian Territory

28

MHP’s experience in alleviating the suffering of victims and their families and empowering them to re-integrate them in the community. GCMHP distributed copies of the IRCT 26 June global reading at the conference (see also p. 18).

Jesoor for Trauma Recovery

On 26 June Jesoor held a “summer games” day for children around the age of 12. The children were encouraged to draw their own ideas about torture, two of which are shown above.

Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for Vic-tims of Torture (TRC)

TRC hosted a conference titled: Monitoring Tor-ture: towards an efficient national plan at which Dr Salam Fayyad, Prime Minister of the Pales-tinian National Authority gave the opening ad-dress. The morning session of the conference explored issues in the documentation of torture, which the afternoon session focused on the na-tional situation and development of an ‘efficient national plan’.

SenegalVIVRE/CAPREC - Rehabilitating Victims of Violence

On 26 June, in partnership with the UN Volun-tary Fund for Victims of Torture and KIOS, Vivre Caprec held a panel discussion focusing on the UN Convention against Torture (UNCAT) and its Optional Protocol (OPCAT). In addition to several torture survivors the 100 participants comprised the governor of Senegal’s Thies region as well as military and police representatives, the Dis-trict Chief Medical Officer, NGO representatives, teachers and religious personalities. At the event, which was covered by RTS state televi-sion, Vivre Caprec distributed French-language copies of the UNCAT and OPCAT to the participat-ing law enforcement representatives and other participants.

SerbiaIAN Centre for Rehabilitation of Torture Vic-tims (IAN CRTV)

IAN CRTV, Serbia’s only torture rehabilitation or-ganisation, commemorated 26 June with several

Palestinian Territory Palestinian Territory

29

Italy

events. At a press conference on June 23rd the centre brought attention to the Serbian state’s obligations according to the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) – especially to establish an independent National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) to conduct inspec-tions of all places of detention. The panel com-prised Thomas Gnocchi of the EU delegation to Serbia; Miloš Jankovi, Deputy Ombudsman for persons deprived of their liberty; Sandrina Špeh Vujadinovi, IAN CRTV co-ordinator; Ljiljana Pali-brk of Helsinki Committee for Human Rights and Đore Alempijevi from the Belgrade University In-stitute of Forensic Medicine. IAN CRTV also spoke about its services and those of two torture reha-bilitation centres, in Trebinje and Milici (BiH), it established with support from the EU. The IRCT global reading was translated into Serbian and included in the press kit (see also p. 18). More-over, IAN CRTV translated the IRCT-designed game “Let’s erase torture” into Serbo-Croatian and posted it at www.ian.org.rs. On 26 June the centre held a dance and music capoeira perform-ance representing the fight against torture and its perpetrators. Some 300 citizens and tourists enjoyed watching the performance, which took place at one of Belgrade’s most visited tour-

ist attractions – the Kalemegdan fortress. IAN activists distributed flyers on the issues of tor-ture, services for victims, and state obligations according to OPCAT. During the week IAN CRTV staff were guests in several TV programs where they talked about the OPCAT and the importance of preventing torture and ensuring rehabilitation for victims – over 30 appearances in the media in total.

Sierra LeoneCommunity Association for Psychosocial Services (CAPS)

On 26 June CAPS held parades with singing and dancing, displaying banners and distribution of leaflets in the district of Kono and the town of Kailahun. In Kono, a parade that began at a lo-cal police station, comprised over 200 invitees led by a renowned school band. In Kailahun a parade began at the Ngiehun primary school campus with some 280 invitees and headed by the Kailahun District Council representative. The parades ended at the Barry College where an imam led a Muslim prayer followed by a pastor leading a Christian prayer and lastly a traditional

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30

healer who invoked the ancestors in prayers to watch over the event. This was followed by the reading of the IRCT global reading (see p. 18) by CAPS’s director and the UNIPSIL Human Rights Officer in Kailahun and Kono respectively. Then came candlelight and prayer ceremonies com-memorating the massive suffering and loss of life due to torture in Sierra Leone, ceremonies that facilitated the grieving process of the com-munity. Testimonies by four CAPS clients sent the message that healing is possible for torture survivors and that rehabilitation professionals are within reach. The testimonies also highlight-ed the clients’ acknowledgement of the power of counseling. Everyone present reflected upon the terrible suffering of torture survivors and was able to acknowledge the survivors’ pain as well as their strength. This motivated several torture survivors in the hall to speak out, relaying their painful experiences of the past war. In Kono a peace-building artist gave a musical performace that educated the audience on the effects of tor-ture and about CAPS’s work. Prior to 26 June, radio debates and interviews took place live on air at the community radio stations in both Kono and Kailahun, highlighting the importance of 26 June and educating the public about the defini-

tion of torture; types of torture; how to support victims of torture, and about other international organisations supporting the commemoration, including the IRCT’s member centres, the Copen-hagen RCT, the Minneapolis CVT and others. The celebrations were concluded with libation and refreshments.

South AfricaThe Trauma Centre For Survivors Of Violence And Torture (TCSVT)

On 26 June TCSVT hosted the event “Demys-tify Torture: Acknowledging that it does hap-pen in South Africa and the world at large” in partnership with the Institute for the Healing of Memories. The event was aimed at community members and service providers and sought to raise awareness to label torture as such instead of calling it “assault” and denying that it takes place in South Africa. The event was held in one of the churches that survived the onslaught of the former apartheid government’s demolitions and forced removal of forty thousand families of colour. In her keynote speech Ms Carnita Ern-erst from the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation in Johannesburg discussed

Sierra Leone South Africa

31

the importance of criminalising torture and the ongoing legislation process to that end; the gov-ernment’s role in addressing torture issues; the role of society in fighting torture; and the impact of torture on individuals, communities and so-ciety as a whole. Father Michael of the US Im-maculte Heart of Mary told the audience about his engagement in fighting torture in the United States while Miriam Fredericks, TCSVT’s interim director, read aloud the IRCT global reading (see p. 18). TCSVT also handed out IRCT campaign materials and held an exhibition with testimo-nies from clients and a powerful journal detail-ing accounts of torture survivor’s experiences, giving the audience a chance to hear them with-out them being present and serving as an ac-knowledgement that torture exists in South Af-rica. Flyers with the message “Say no to torture and violence and strengthen our democracy” were distributed.

Sri LankaSurvivors Associated (SA)

Survivors Associated held activities all over the country through its field offices in the north, south, east and west of Sri Lanka to commorate

26 June. Events included meetings with torture survivors and the general public led by human rights lawyers; sporting events for survivors and their families; and peace programmes featuring role plays by torture survivors. Concerned citi-zens as well as medical and paramedical person-nel participated in training programmes for the care of torture survivors together with survivors and their families. All in all more than 1100 per-sons took part in SA’s commemorations, which also comprised the reading of the IRCT global 26 June statement (see p. 18).

TurkeyCentre of Social Action, Rehabilitation and Readjustment for the victims of torture (SOHRAM-CASRA)

Already on 13 June SOHRAM-CASRA initiated its campaign “STOP TORTURE AND MALTREATMENT”. The campaign commenced with a picnic for tor-ture victims and their families. Some 1500 par-ticipants enjoyed Turkish, Kurdish, Arab, Syrian, Armenian and Turkmen music, folk dance con-tests, games, discussions and of course food. On the morning of 25 June children released balloons below walls of a fort at the foot of Mount Kırklar

South Africa Sri Lanka

32

Dagi to protest torture. Later in the day the cen-tre held a meeting at its premises where its presi-dent, Mr. Yavuz Binbay and Zeynep Kaya, a lawyer volunteering for S-C spoke about the sentencing of children in Turkey; the situation of child pris-oners; and how to prevent torture and violence. On 26 June, together with the World Organisation against Torture (OMCT), S-C issued a press re-lease denouncing the detention of children under Turkish anti-terrorism laws. The centre also led an open seminar on methods of rehabilitation of torture and another one on the usefulness of psy-chotherapy. On the evening of 26 June S-C gave a cocktail party for victims of torture and their rela-tives as well as for concerned citizens and NGO representatives.

Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT) - Adana, Ankara, Diyarbakir, Istanbul and Izmir

In parallel with commemorating 26 June the Hu-man Rights Foundation of Turkey celebrated its 20th anniversary. Generating extensive media coverage HRFT organised readings of press state-ments together with other NGOs such as the Turk-ish Human Rights Association and the Contempo-rary Lawyers’ Association. The press statements

were read out publicly in the cities of Adana, An-kara, Diyarbakir, Istanbul and Izmir where HRFT’s five treatment and rehabilitation centres are lo-cated. In Ankara HRFT held an exhibition between 21 - 28 June on torture and the right to life with drawings by Abidin Dino and Serpil Odabasi, whilst it held a seminar in Istanbul on the effec-tive documentation of torture. HRFT also printed a series of four posters celebrating its 20th an-niversary. In Izmir the posters were displayed on large billboards all over the city. Other 20th anni-versary campaign material included hats, t-shirts, brochures and press kits.

United KingdomMedical Foundation for the Care of Victims of Torture

The Medical Foundation for the Care of Victims of Torture marked the 26 June by hosting a “Secret Garden Party” for the organisations’ supporters at its largest centre in London, enabling them to meet current and former clients and experience some of the fruits of the MF’s therapeutic group work. The event was held in the private garden developed by the Natural Growth Project (NGP),

Turkey Turkey

33

which provides a therapeutic space where cli-ents can interact with nature and undertake their clinical sessions. The day celebrated the resilience and talents of people from around the world who have experienced torture and who are now finding support and rehabilitation in the UK and showcased the MF’s group work including the NGP’s garden, baking from the Bread Making group, and artwork produced by clients working in the Open Art Studio. Members of the MF’s Write to Life group delivered inspiring readings and musical performances. There was also a Solidarity Tree for supporters to share their mes-sages of solidarity with survivors and join with the MF in future campaigning initiatives. Beyond the Secret Garden Party, the MF also supported the IRCT global reading (see p. 18) and World without Torture action on its’ website.

Refugee Therapy Centre (RTC)

The Refugee Therapy Centre commemorated 26 June and Refugee Week (18-24 June) with an Open Day, sending a message of fairness and equal-ity for all. John Denford, Chair of the RTC Board of Trustees, outlined RTC’s work and emphasised the great need for its services in the UK refugee

community. Renowned writer and RTC patron Eva Hoffman, born in Poland in 1945 to Holocaust survivor parents, presented the cases of two refugees who have received services at the RTC: a journalist from Middle-East, who was severely tortured and whose wife was executed; and a young African girl, all of whose family members were raped and executed while she was herself tortured at the age of eight. Hoffman discussed the result of the therapeutic treatment the two had received and the importance of a safe space for tortured refugees, such as the RTC. Aida Ala-yarian, RTC’s Clinical Director, reported that this year RTC received 716 referrals of people from 29 different countries. 42 percent were children and young people. Alayarian emphasised that refugees are ordinary people, except for the fact that, through no fault of their own, they find them-selves in extraordinary circumstances. She also stressed that it takes courage to be a refugee: courage not to give up hope; to start a new life in discouraging and sometimes frightening circum-stances; and to become contributing member of society once again. Following the speeches, an in-tercultural lunch, prepared by staff members and RTC clients, was served in the centre’s garden, accompanied by music from different countries.

Turkey Turkey

34

MP Jeremy Corbyn, another patron of RTC, spoke about the role of the centre in London; the value of offering services in the clients’ own languages; and the contribution that immigrants make to the community. RTC also held an auction with do-nated items, which raised over 1,000 GBP for the centre’s work.

United StatesAdvocates for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (ASTT)

ASTT, a Baltimore based nonprofit that provides comprehensive mental health care and social services to survivors of torture and war trauma, recognised 26 June by hosting a special exhibit and lecture at the Walters Art Museum. The ex-hibit featured client artwork from ASTT’s Healing Images photography programme and the Kitchen Stories Project. ASTT’s Executive Director Karen Hanscom, photographer Monica Lopossay, and artist Julie Lin discussed the healing power of art in treating torture survivors. The event was free and open to the public.

Survivors International (SI)

During the week of June 20-26, Survivors Interna-tional (SI) hosted its second Annual Week of Heal-ing in honour of UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, where it also publicised the IRCT 26 June global reading (see p. 18). SI kicked off the day with a hike in the beautiful Oakland Hills withw a few staff members and survivors. This was followed up by a film screening of a reen-actment of a tribunal of a person held in Guantan-amo, co-sponsored with Amnesty International, the Center for Justice and Accountability, and Health Professionals Against Torture, followed by presentations from a psychologist and attorney and discussion. SI additionally participated with its partners from the California Consortium of Tor-ture Treatment Centers in talking with state legis-lators to raise awareness about torture survivors living in California and their needs. The centre also hosted a ‘potluck’ at its premises that was attended by many survivors from a wide variety of countries, sharing stories of healing over home-cooked foods.

TurkeyUnited States

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Italy

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RatifiedStates which have ratified the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment147 states as of 27 September, 2010

Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia

Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Belarus Belgium Belize Benin

Bolivia Bosnia and HerzegovinaBotswana Brazil Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia

Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Chad Chile China Colombia Congo

Costa Rica Côte d’Ivoire CroatiaCuba Cyprus Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea

Estonia Ethiopia Finland France Gabon Georgia GermanyGhana

Greece Guatemala Guinea Guyana Holy See Honduras Hungary Iceland

Indonesia Ireland Israel Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya

Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia

Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Maldives Mali

Malta Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco

Mozambique Namibia Nepal NetherlandsNew Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria

Norway PakistanPanama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal

Qatar Republic of Korea Republic of Moldova Romania Russian Federation Rwanda

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal SerbiaSeychelles

Sierra Leone SlovakiaSlovenia Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Swaziland

Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Thailand The Former Yugoslav Republic of MacedoniaTimor-Leste

Togo Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Uganda Ukraine United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

United States of AmericaUruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) Yemen Zambia

New Ratification on 23/06/2010

37

Not ratifiedStates which have not ratified the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment48 states as of 27 September, 2010

AngolaBahamas*BarbadosBhutanBrunei DarussalamCentral African RepublicComoros*Cook Islands

DominicaDominican Republic*EritreaFijiGambia*GrenadaGuinea-Bissau*Haiti

India*Iran (Islamic Republic of)IraqJamaicaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People’s Republic ofLao People’s Democratic Republic*Malaysia

Marshall IslandsMicronesia, Federated States ofMyanmarNauru*NiueOmanPalauPapua New Guinea

Saint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSamoaSao Tome and Principe*SingaporeSolomon IslandsSudan*Suriname

Tanzania, United Republic ofTongaTrinidad and TobagoTuvaluUnited Arab EmiratesVanuatuVietnamZimbabwe

Not ratified

Ratified

* States that have signed but not ratified/acceded UNCAT

Signed on 21/09/2010

38

Join us next yearThe worldwide commemoration of the United Na-tions International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is key to raising public awareness of the problem of torture. In 2011, as in the previous years, the IRCT will seek to collaborate with as many anti-torture organisations as possible. If your organisation would like to participate in the 2011 campaign you are very welcome to contact us.

In the weeks leading up to 26 June 2011 the IRCT’s website www.irct.org will feature an over-view of planned activities worldwide.

For further information please visit our website or contact us at the below address. We look for-ward to hearing from you.

Address

+45 3376 0600+45 3376 [email protected]

Phone FaxE-mailWebsite

International Rehabilitation Councilfor Torture Victims (IRCT)Borgergade 13P.O. Box 90491022 Copenhagen KDenmark

2011

39

The IRCT needs your help to rebuild the lives of torture victims and fight for the eradication of torture worldwide. The recovery of torture vic-tims is greatly impaired if their treatment is sus-pended due to limited or uncertain funds. There are still many parts of the world where treatment or support continues to be scarce or completely unavailable. By contributing to our work, you can help ensure that torture survivors and their families receive the help they need.

Regular givingPlease visit out website, www.irct.org/donate, to set up a regular giving through NETS (PBS) or PayPal.

One time donation - Online Please visit out website, www.irct.org/donate, to make a credit card donation.

By cheque Please send a cheque that is made payable to our address (opposite page).

By bank transferDanske BankHolmens Kanal BranchHolmens Kanal 21090 Copenhagen KDenmarkSWIFT/BIC: DABADKKK

USD accountRegistration no.:Account no.:IBAN:

DKK accountRegistration no.:Account no.:IBAN:

EUR accountRegistration no.:Account no.:IBAN:

201130014310-005029DK18 3000 4310 0050 29

30014310-821152DK90 3000 4310 8211 52

30013001-957171DK69 3000 3001 9571 71

irct

Torture breaks people. Your support helps us rebuild lives and fight torture.

www.irct.org/donate

عالم خال من التعذيبהעולם בלי עינוייםدنيايی بدون شکنجه

โลกปราศจากการทารุณกรรม没有酷刑的世界世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상

26 June 2010 – International Day in Support of Victims of Torture irct.org/26june




โลกปราศจากการทารุณกรรม没有酷刑的世界世界ことなく拷問고문없는 세상DUNIA TANPA PENYIKSAAN



TORTURARIK

EEN WERELD ZONDER M

ARTELING

WELT OHNE FOLTER

DOMHAN GAN CÉASADH

IL MONDO SENZA TORTURA

DUKH BIN JEEVAN


EL MUNDO SIN TORTURAVÄRLD UTAN TORTYR

IŞKENCESIZ DÜNYA



ŚWIAT BEZ TORTUR

PASAULE BEZ SPIDZINAŠANAS



ULIMWENGU BILA

MATESO









ुुुुTAKLEEF WARAI DUNIYA


2010

26 JUNE2010

International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims

Join our campaign at

www.facebook.com/WorldWithoutTorture

www.irct.orgISSN 1997-6275

Documents

Together against Torture - 26 June 2010