Impunity as a root cause of the prevalence of torture 2010, para. 63
Paragraph- Paragraph text
- In order to fully appreciate the importance of the work of torture rehabilitation centres, one has to recall the devastating impact of torture on human beings. For most victims, the experience of their ordeal will remain present for the rest of their lives, if not physically then at least mentally. Often, the psychological impact of torture amounts to what has been described as a "disintegration of the personality". The harm inflicted may be so profound that it shatters the very identity of a person, the ability to feel any joy or hope, to engage with his or her environment, or to find any meaning in life. Depression, anxiety disorders including flash-backs, loss of self-respect, cognitive impairment and suicidal tendencies are only some of the consequences of torture. The impact of the abuse is rarely limited to the person directly targeted but also victimizes their families and even their communities. The victims' inability to resume their work further adds to their social seclusion and financial strain. In general, experiences of torture cannot be entirely "left behind", let alone forgotten.
- 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)
- Equality & Inclusion
- Violence
- Person(s) affected
- All
- Year
- 2010
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Paragraph number
- 63
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