Alice Edwards: Is it possible to eradicate torture?
Jan 10, 2025
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Alice Edwards, the UN special rapporteur on torture, passionately addresses the alarming persistence of torture four decades after the UN Convention Against Torture. She discusses the link between global conflicts and rising torture incidents, revealing harrowing personal accounts from victims. Edwards emphasizes the necessity for a unified international code of human rights to eradicate torture, exposing the challenges of governmental hypocrisy and accountability in war zones. Her insights offer a stark reminder of the ongoing fight for human dignity and justice.
There is a troubling link between the increase in armed conflicts and the rise in torture reports, highlighting urgent human rights concerns.
Legal classification of sexual violence as torture is essential for ensuring justice and accountability for victims in conflict situations.
Deep dives
The Rise and Impact of Torture in Armed Conflicts
There is a strong correlation between the increase in armed conflicts worldwide and the rise in reports of torture. With around 120 active conflicts, many victims have come forward to share their harrowing experiences of torture that often serve purposes such as interrogation or oppression. The global acceptance of the UN Convention Against Torture has not translated into effective measures against torture in practice, as various nations continue to violate these principles. While some countries exhibit serious human rights abuses, others are still struggling to fully transition towards democratic governance.
Understanding the Definition and Scope of Torture
Torture is defined as inflicting severe pain or suffering on an individual with a specific purpose, such as obtaining information or intimidating others. This definition encompasses acts committed by state and non-state actors, which can lead to state liability if they fail to prevent these acts. Despite the broad ratification of anti-torture treaties, implementation remains inconsistent, with varying degrees of accountability across different countries. This inconsistency highlights the need for enhanced legal frameworks and societal recognition of torture as a serious crime against humanity.
Sexual Violence and Torture: A Call for Legal Recognition
Sexual violence in conflict, particularly rape, should be legally classified as torture to provide victims with better avenues for justice and remedies. This legal classification eliminates concerns regarding consent and ensures accountability, as there are no statutes of limitations for torture cases. The UN's frameworks already recognize that sexual violence can constitute torture, but the challenge remains in the global enforcement of these definitions. By acknowledging the devastating impacts of sexual torture, a clearer path for justice and support for survivors can be established.
Sarah Montague speaks to Alice Edwards, the UN special rapporteur on torture. It’s been 40 years since the introduction of the UN Convention Against Torture, but she says it’s still happening at unacceptable levels. Is it possible to eradicate something that has been around for as long as humans have existed?
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