Role of forensic and medical sciences in the investigation prevention torture and other ill-treatment 2014, para. 21
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International law provides for absolute and non-derogable prohibition of torture and other ill-treatment. The United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment envisages three main pillars in the fight against torture, which are the obligation of States to ensure justice and to prevent and to redress all acts of torture. The obligation to investigate is central to the realization of all three main pillars. The evidence collected during investigations may form the basis for civil, administrative and criminal proceedings seeking justice; it may support claims made under the exclusionary and non refoulement rules; and it may help assess victims' claims for reparation. Lastly, thorough investigation is necessary to ensure that official bodies and the general public can monitor and be made aware of such practices in order to prohibit them and encourage reform.
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Non-negotiated soft law
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Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment