Impunity as a root cause of the prevalence of torture 2010, para. 66
Paragraph- Paragraph text
- Rehabilitation centres also assume a decisive role in holding perpetrators accountable. With their forensic expertise they ensure that torture traumas, whether visible or invisible, are scrupulously documented before they disappear. Even if, at the time of the examination, it may seem unlikely that proceedings will be held, adequate records can eventually constitute crucial evidence in later criminal or civil cases. In this regard, the Manual on the Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Istanbul Protocol) provides an important standard for the documentation of abuse, which goes beyond the therapeutic purpose in a narrow sense. Medical records can be instrumental in overcoming the otherwise lack of objective evidence with which survivors of torture are so commonly confronted, given that torture mostly takes place without witnesses. They provide evidence which can corroborate the victim's account of the ordeal. Establishing the facts of torture before a court and holding perpetrators accountable can give torture survivors a sense of justice and facilitate both a coming to terms with their past suffering and a comprehensive process of healing. Additionally, monetary compensation as a result of civil proceedings may provide the necessary funds for additional medical treatment. Acknowledging the importance of the Istanbul Protocol, the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims and the Turkish Medical Association, together with the Government of Turkey, concluded last year the training of 4,000 medical doctors, 1,000 prosecutors and 500 judges.
- Legal status
- Non-negotiated soft law
- Body
- Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
- Document type
- Special Procedures' report
- Means of adoption
- N.A.
- Topic(s)
- Governance & Rule of Law
- Violence
- Person(s) affected
- All
- Year
- 2010
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Paragraph number
- 66
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