UN Day: Ending Torture, Supporting Survivors, Upholding Human Dignity

Speak Out: United Nations Day for Torture Victims’ Support

On June 26 th, the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is commemorated across the world. It is on this decisive day that a unified message to the whole world to act and stop the heinous act of torture is rendered and it is a serious day when we can pay tribute and support the innumerable v (victims and survivors) of torture all over. The importance of this date is two-sided in one way pointing to the day in 1945 when the UN Charter was signed, to which the member states were obliged to safeguard human rights, and the other part more straightforwardly celebrating the day in June 26 1987 when the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment finally took hold.

Torture is a detestable activity, which attempts to wipe out dignity and character of a person. Not only does it cause deep and physical pain but also causes life-long, crushing psychological and emotional trauma, which, often spreads the black shadow of pain to families and communities. These effects are far reaching and can be passed on through generations which helps fuel cycles of violence and sufferings. UN has openly come out to denounce torture since its conception because torture is one of the most reprehensible things human beings commit on their fellow human beings. This annual commemoration is sad in its topicality because as much as it is illegal and prohibited by the provisions of international law, torture is still being used, in one way or another, all over the world.
There are a number of crucial goals pursued with the help of the International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture. First, it gives voice in taking up strong advocacy actions against the vice of torture, and this reminds both governments and individuals about their duty in hindering and feeding on such acts. Second, it can be used to identify with and give a sense of support too to the hundreds of thousands of victims and their families who suffer beyond belief. This is in the form of campaigning on their right to justice, redress and rehabilitation.

read more: Mastering Padmasana: Ultimate Guide to the Lotus Yoga Pose

The work of rehabilitation centers and organizations worldwide is critical to this process. They show that victims can certainly heal with specialized and holistic support, and the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture (the Fund) administered by the UN Human Rights Office has a unique and critical role in doing this. The Fund channels voluntary donations to civil society organizations that provide vital legal, social, humanitarian, psychological and medical assistance to torture survivors and their families. Beneficiary individuals include human rights defenders, individuals deprived of liberty, children, refugees and migrants, victims of enforced disappearance and all members of marginalized groups.
On this day, the UN calls upon all actors – Members States, civil society organizations and individuals – to work together in a united effort to eradicate torture. Governments are urged to strengthen and effectively implement laws that aim to protect their citizens from all types of torture and ill-treatment. It is a day to reaffirm our commitment to human dignity, accountability for perpetrators, and support for survivors to rebuild their lives. As we reflect on this day, it is a reminder that there has been progress made but the fight against torture is not yet over.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join. 

Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.