Lesson Series 24: June 26 – International Day Against Torture and for the Victims of Torture

The Issue

June 26 has been designated International Day Against Torture by the United Nations some years ago. It is sad that it appears to be necessary to institute such a day to remind ourselves that the practice of torture is widely prevalent in Asian societies today. Although many countries are signatories to the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or degrading Treatment or Punishment, there is still tacit tolerance towards and acceptance of many forms of torture and inhuman and degrading treatment and punishment.

The Lessons

Lesson 1: Actions to eliminate and prevent torture