Together Against Torture 2003 by IRCT International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims

Together against Torture

IRCT’s Global Report on the UN International Day in Support of

Victims of Torture – 26 June 2003

IRCT GLOBAL REPORT 2003

Together against Torture: IRCT’s Global Report on the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – 26 June 2003 ®

International Rehabilitation Council for Torture victims (IRCT) IRCT Borgergade 13 P.O. Box 9049 DK-1022 Copenhagen K Denmark Phone: +45 33 76 06 00 Fax: +45 33 76 05 00 E-mail: irct@irct.org Website: www.irct.org ISBN: 87-88882-57-8 2003 Layout: Synergi Printed by: Synergi

INTRODUCTION

The International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) is an independent, international health professional organisation, which promotes and supports the rehabilitation of torture victims and works for the prevention of torture worldwide. The vision of the IRCT is a world that values and accepts shared responsibility for the eradication of torture.

The IRCT gratefully acknowledges the Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Commission, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe – Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, for their generous support for the 2003 ‘Together against Torture’ campaign. The views expressed in this report can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the above institutions. The country activities published in this report are based on the submission of reports as received from campaign participants.

List of Contents Introduction ............................................

Campaign Activities Worldwide ...............

Status of the UN Convention against Torture ........................................ 42 We encourage you to commemorate 26 June 2004! ......................................... 44

Preface by His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Introduction by the IRCT President

This report illustrates with much clarity the commitment and motivation of the people and organisations working worldwide for the prevention of torture. The UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is commemorated on 26 June every year in the global “Together against Torture” campaign which is coordinated by the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims.

On 26 June 2003, the global campaign to commemorate the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture had more participants than ever before: 302 organisations in around 100 countries, totalling more than 70,000 people worldwide. The campaign is an important way of creating public awareness of torture: no other anti-torture event has received coverage in over 400 different media, print as well as electronic.

The commemoration of this day gives hope that one day torture will be eradicated from our world and people will be free and live in just societies. This report documents a wide variety of commemorative events which took place on 26 June 2003. When people across the globe organise such variety of activities on 26 June, they implement compassion – instead of simply talking about it. This action of compassion is necessary for the world society to move forward in the struggle against torture, and it makes people around the world aware of the suffering by millions of victims and survivors of torture. At the same time, these many events encourage dialogue, discussion, and understanding between peoples. I hope that the movement against torture will maintain this important work and will keep putting pressure on governments and other decision-makers to do what is in their power to eradicate torture. I am deeply grateful to all of the participants for their efforts in this respect and I encourage you to continue this meaningful work together.

The annual 26 June Campaign is important for the fight against torture, and the IRCT has taken great pride in organising the campaign for the last six years. Without the generous support of the Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Commission, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe – Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights the campaign would not be possible, so the IRCT wishes to extend its most sincere gratitude. At the same time we wish to thank all participants in the 2003 global campaign for their courage and commitment. We hope that this report will encourage you to continue your work against torture, and that it will serve as inspiration for you when planning and implementing your event on 26 June 2004.

Paper: Cover: 250 g/m2 Biberist silkemat Contents: 115 g/m2 Biberist silkemat Front cover illustration: Human chain formed by victims of torture in connection with the VRCT´s 26 June event, India.

This year, the participating organisations have again showed great imagination in the planning of their commemorative events, which have included youth camps, press conferences, school drawing competitions, prayers for victims of torture, testimonies, and prison visits. More than 20 organisations have written petitions and collected signatures in order to put pressure upon world governments to stop torture, e.g. by ratifying and implementing the UN Convention against Torture.

Dalai Lama

Dr Bhogendra Sharma IRCT President 1

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Together with the National Committee for

In Dhaka, the Bangladesh Human Rights

Martyrs and Torture Victims, the Bahrain

Commission (BHRC) organised a human chain

Human Rights Centre, and Al-Menber

in front of the Supreme Court Building. This

Democratic Progressive Association, Amnesty

was followed by a discussion meeting with

International in Bahrain (AI-Bahrain) organised

many prominent speakers. Events were also

a peaceful street march with thousands of

organised by 70 local BHRC divisions through-

participants. More than 33,000 people signed

out the country, including seminars, rallies

a petition addressed to the King of Bahrain in

and discussion meetings, with each event

support of torture victims.

attracting some 100 people.

BANGLADESH: Street procession organised by the BRCT and local collaboration partners.

ALBANIA: The ARCT conference focused on the situation in Albania during the communist dictatorship, and the conference received broad media coverage.

Albania The Albanian Centre for Rehabilitation of Trauma and Torture Victims (ARCT) organised a commemorative conference on 26 June 2003, collaborating with organisations for victims of political persecution. The ARCT also collaborated with the Albanian Helsinki Committee in organising a press conference.

BANGLADESH: Approximately 600 people attended the human chain organised by the BHRC. BAHRAIN: All AI-Bahrain events were well covered by the media.

BAHRAIN: Together with the partner organisations, AI-Bahrain produced and distributed publications and campaign materials to the public.

The Bangladesh Rehabilitation Centre for

National Press Club. In the evening, another

Trauma Victims (BRCT) held commemorative

seminar on “Together against Torture” was

events throughout the country. In Dhaka,

held. In other parts of the country, the BRCT

there was a seminar on “The Role of Clinical

Task Force Against Torture collaborated with

Psychologists in the Treatment of Torture

local NGOs, professional groups, trade unions,

Victims”. More than 200 human rights activists

etc., in organising rallies, human chains, and

participated in the seminar, which received

seminars. In total, 45 districts organised

good coverage in the electronic media as well

events in 66 different locations throughout

as in 17 leading newspapers. On 25 June,

the country. A total of 15,000 people partici-

there was a seminar on “Together against

pated in the events, which received broad

Torture”, and on 26 June, around 200 people

newspaper coverage.

formed a human chain in front of the

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The Centre for Health and Human Right

Barbados

Promotion Bangladesh organised a full day of

Amnesty International in Barbados (AI-Bar-

events on 26 June, starting with a rally and

against Torture by India and Iran, and around

The Secretary-General of the International

500 people participated in the many events.

Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims at the time, Dr Jens Modvig, was in Brussels

bados) organised an information stall, and

an open-air street meeting with around 500

many people were interested in the information

participants. In the evening, there was a

materials. AI-Barbados also sent information

petition against torture and an essay and art

materials to a radio station and postcards to

competition for children.

the Governor General and the Prime Minister, emphasising the importance of Barbados

On 26 June, the Centre for Rehabilitation of

TEMA organised a youth conference entitled

on 26 June, where he – together with

“Torture in the Army”. This was followed by a

Ms Danièle Smadja, Director of Multilateral

party for some 150 young people, who par-

Relations and Human Rights in the European

ticipated in different contests and watched an

Commission – presented the new IRCT proj-

anti-torture show.

ect for the implementation of the Istanbul Protocol and the global 26 June Campaign.

signing the UN Convention against Torture.

Torture Survivors (CRTS) organised a rally,

Woman, Act! organised an ecological action

followed by a seminar and an art competition

and a Human Rights Summer Camp in the

for children. Around 500 people participated

Belarus

Minsk region, where 30 children participated

Bolivia

in the seminar, and both events received

Amnesty International in Belarus (AI-Belarus)

in a 26 June drawing competition.

Instituto de Terapia e Investigación sobre las

broad newspaper coverage.

BANGLADESH: More than 200 children contributed to the art competition organised by the CRTS.

BANGLADESH: The CRTS produced colourful leaflets and brochures which were distributed to the public on 26 June.

collaborated with other NGOs in commemo-

Secuelas de la Tortura y la Violencia Estatal

rating 26 June. They organised the “2

(ITEI) collaborated with a number of human

National Essay and Drawing Competition”,

Belgium

rights organisations in commemorating 26

and the winners were awarded prizes. They

Action des Chrétins pour l´Abolition de la

June. They held events in the cities of La Paz

also designed an anti-torture website, gave a

Torture in the French-speaking part of

and Cochabamba, and ITEI drafted a docu-

lecture at a secondary school, and held a con-

Belgium (ACAT Francophone-Belgium) organ-

ment on torture as well as a petition, which

ference on torture in the Russian Federation.

ised prayers for victims of torture on 26 June

was signed by the participating organisations.

Furthermore, AI-Belarus collected signatures

2003 by editing and sending out a booklet of

In La Paz, the event took place on a public

for the ratification of the UN Convention

prayers to 700 parishes. ACAT Francophone-

square where there were presentations and

Belgium also sent a special 26 June appeal to

statements. Around 10 radio stations, a couple

China.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

www.acet-bg.org

Bosnia and Herzegovina The Association for Rehabilitation of Torture Victims – Centre for Torture Victims (CTV)

resulted in a one-hour radio broadcast on BH Radio 1, the CTV’s Medical Director being interviewed by a newspaper, and Cantonal TV

болка страдание

the CTV.

BRAZIL: Poster announcing the debate organised by GTNM/RJ on 26 June 2003.

covered the event. In Cochabamba, ITEI and

Brazil Grupo Tortura Nunca Mais do Rio de Janeiro

exile. There were testimonies by former pris-

(GTNM/RJ) targeted around 3,000 people in

oners or relatives of people who died during

connection with 26 June 2003, distributing

the dictatorship, and the event resulted in

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: The CTV press conference resulted in good media coverage on 26 June.

ACET sent a declaration to the national for victims of political repression; and on 25 June, ACET held a discussion meeting and a press conference. ACET had prepared a press release on behalf of the Balkan Network for the Prevention of Torture and Rehabilitation of Victims, and the press release was disseminated to the European Commission and other organisations. ACET’s activities were well covered by the media.

ТО

ОВА Е И ЗТЕЗ ЗЗННААЕЕТТЕЕ ЛЛИИ, АНИЕ! , ччее вв ннаш аши ияя за заккоонн н ня ям ма

а ссъ ъо оттв вееттн но о н н аак к а а з з а а н н и и е за е за ТО ТОВВАА ППРРЕС ЕСТЪ ТЪП 26 June United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

ПЛЛЕН ЕНИ ИЕЕ

BULGARIA: ACET had produced 2,000 posters and 500 postcards which were widely distributed to the public.

information materials about the day.

extensive media coverage.

ЖЕРТВИТЕ ЖЕРТВИТЕ НА НА ИЗТЕЗАНИЯ ИЗТЕЗАНИЯ

НЯВА ПРИЧИ УМИШЛиЕНО

broadcasting a programme on the work of

for former prisoners and people in political

authorities and asked for a minute’s silence

Когато о длъжностн лице полицай, ел, следоват ел, надзират военен

Trauma Survivors in a Post-War Society”. This

the collaborating organisations held an event

26 þíè

ЦЕНТЪР ЗА ПОДПОМАГАНЕ НА ХОРА, ПРЕЖИВЕЛИ ИЗТЕЗАНИЕ THE ASSISTANCE CENTRE FOR TORTURE SURVIVORS

вв подкрепа подкрепа на на

ing the book “Treatment of Torture and

of newspapers, and several television stations

other organisations on 1 June. On 20 June,

Международен Международен ден ден

held a press conference on 25 June, promot-

BOLIVIA: ITEI’s exhibition in La Paz on 26 June.

КАМПАНИЯ НА ACET

Burundi

BURUNDI: At the 26 June event organised by Arche d’Alliance and CADI, a sketch illustrated how torture is practised in detention centres.

Arche d’Alliance and the Comité d’action pour le Developpement Integral (CADI) collaborated in organising a half-day seminar with

Forum des Personnes Actives Contre la

the theme “Together against Torture”. There

Torture in Burundi (FACT-Burundi) held a com-

were speeches, a sketch, and a debate about

memorative event on 6 July 2003, including a

torture, all aiming to sensitise the military, the

lecture focusing on the UN International Day

police, the judiciary, and the political and

and an account of FACT’s activities. There was

Furthermore, they organised an art exhibition

Bulgaria

administrative authorities to the problem of

also a press conference, and FACT had pro-

and a debate on “National Security and

The Assistance Centre for Torture Survivors

torture. There were also a number of radio

duced special t-shirts with the inscription:

Human Rights”. Approximately 160 people

(ACET) held a number of 26 June events, the

programmes aimed at the general public.

“Let us fight against torture”.

participated in the event, which was covered

first being a commemorative meeting with

by television and radio stations.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Bujumbura collaborated with the Burundian League Against Torture in organising a one-day workshop on the following two topics: “The Magnitude of Torture in the World” and “Torture in Burundi: Strategies for Fight”. The 26 June message from the UN SecretaryGeneral Kofi Annan was read aloud, and a

Chile

The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture

Corporación de Promoción y Defensa de los

(CCVT) organised a panel discussion on the

Derechos del Pueblo (CODEPU) collaborated

intersections of war, terrorism, and torture.

with the Comisión Etica Contra Tortura,

There were special guests and speakers repre-

which is a coalition of the main human rights

senting the refugee community, and more

organisations in Chile. On 22 June, they held

than 60 people participated. The CCVT had

a “Human Rights Fair” in Santiago, where

also organised an exhibition depicting the

UNIC representative talked about the different

grim realities of torture, and on the evening

UN human rights instruments. Some 60

of 26 June, they held a festive event of soli-

people participated in the event, which was

darity with survivors of torture and war, in

also covered by national television, radio

which around 200 people participated. There

stations, and newspapers.

were a number of speeches and a dance perCAMEROON: The winners of a CRAT essay competition were awarded prizes at the 26 June conference.

formance dedicated to the CCVT and its clients. Furthermore, a band played and there

Cameroon

Canada

they distributed information materials and CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC: Actors and members of ACAT-CAR who performed a sketch at the seminar on 26 June.

participated in the seminar, listening to speeches, a sketch, and testimonies by victims

had an exhibition, and where music was played and poetry recited. On 26 June, the Comisión Etica Contra Tortura held a meeting with the Chilean President, Ricardo Lagos.

of torture. Several newspapers covered the event.

CHILE: Representatives of Comisión Etica Contra Tortura on their way to a meeting with President Lagos to deliver the sixth report by the Comisión.

were songs by Somali singers and the CCVT

On 26 June, the Centre for Rehabilitation

which resulted in two important decisions:

On 25 and 26 June, Volunteers for Prison

and the Abolition of Torture (CRAT) held a

the first was that a memorandum would be

Inmates collaborated with a number of NGOs

conference, focusing on torture in Cameroon,

handed over to police stations and prisons,

in organising a race against torture, a radio

mental torture, and the rehabilitation of

condemning torture. The second was that the

quiz for high-school students, and a round-

torture victims. Television and newspapers

conference participants would investigate the

table conference with the theme “Women

Central African Republic

covered the conference, where some 50

possibilities of establishing a rehabilitation

and torture: with CAT hopes are not lost”.

Action des Chrétins pour l’Abolition de la

people participated.

centre for torture victims in the northwest

Furthermore, they paid a visit to a detention

Torture in the Central African Republic (ACAT-

province of Cameroon. Later in the day, par-

centre, where copies of the UN Convention

CAR) published a declaration and a press re-

The Tort for Torture-Victims Center organised

ticipants visited a number of torture victims in

against Torture (CAT) were distributed to

lease on 26 June, and they organised a semi-

a street march on the morning of 26 June

their homes. Some 360 people participated in

detainees and the Unit Head. The day ended

nar on “The Problems of Compensation for

2003, followed by traditional dance. Later in

the various activities, which also received

with an award ceremony and celebrations.

Victims of Torture”. More than 160 people

the day, there was a round-table conference,

newspaper coverage.

Choir.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Colombia

Czech Republic

Organisation mondiale contre la torture in

Three different Czech Amnesty International

Colombia (OMCT-Colombia) collaborated with

groups commemorated 26 June. The

a number of human rights organisations, all

Pardubice Group held an event at a local

of which are members of the Coalición

school, where students distributed campaign

Colombiana Contra la Tortura: Corporación

materials. The Brno Group had an information

Avre, Terres des Hommes – Almania, Terres

stall, including a photo exhibition, and the

des Hommes – Italia, Asociación Minga,

event was covered by radio stations, television,

Fundación CLEBER, and Comité de

and local newspapers. The Prague Group had

work with young, secondary victims of torture.

COLOMBIA: Asociación Minga and Terres des Hommes – Italia organised a creative workshop for children who have been directly affected by human rights violations.

boards with photo displays about torture and human rights, and there were information tables with petitions and postcards to governments.

Denmark held an “Anti-torture” concert on 19 June,

CROATIA: Scene from the education programme organised by the IRCT Zagreb.

and on the evening of 26 June, they organ-

presentations followed by a play, which was the result of Terres des Hommes – Italia’s

different bands played. There were also large

Amnesty International in Århus (AI-Århus)

Solidaridad con los Presos Políticos. Their 26 June event included a number of

organised a large, outdoor event, where three

ised a public hearing on the subject “Human Around 150 people participated in the event,

where the 26 June statement by the UN

Rights under Pressure”. The events were

which was a great achievement for the col-

Secretary-General Kofi Annan was read aloud

covered extensively in newspapers and by

laborating organisations.

and different international legal principles for

different radio stations, and an AI-Århus

the protection of human rights were discussed.

representative was interviewed by the local television station.

Congo, Democratic Republic of the

Croatia

Action des Chrétins pour l’Abolition de la

Torture Victims – Zagreb (IRCT Zagreb) held a

Torture collaborated with the Human Rights

number of events in the week before 26

Section of MONUC-Kisangani in organising a

June, including a lecture on torture victims

visit to the Central Prison where a number of

and mental health, the distribution of 26 June

speeches were made, talking about the prohi-

campaign materials, and an education pro-

bition of torture and the difficult conditions in

gramme. In total, over 300 people partici-

prisons. On the afternoon of 26 June, there

pated in the events.

was a ceremony in the Catholic Cathedral,

The International Rehabilitation Centre for

CZECH REPUBLIC: AI-Prague staged a mock torture display, which attracted a lot of attention from around 200 passers-by.

DENMARK: Between 25-27 June, AI-Århus organised the exhibition “Masks” at the Town Hall Square.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims organised a “Reflective Hour” in a church in Copenhagen, featuring a number of highly talented musicians. The church was lit with candles, lending a very intimate atmosphere to the event, where around 200 people were present. The Rehabilitation and Research Centre for

Ethiopia

Finland

The Rehabilitation Center for Victims of

The Centre for Torture Survivors in Finland

Torture in Ethiopia (RCVTE) commemorated

commemorated 26 June with a press confe-

26 June for the sixth time in 2003, and there

rence, where 20 journalists from national

were speeches and songs as well as an exhibi-

television and radio as well as various news-

tion. The around 200 participants included

papers were present. Two torture survivors

representatives from embassies, the UN, the

and a number of staff were interviewed for

government and NGOs as well as torture

television and radio.

On the morning of 26 June, the HRIDC participated in a radio programme and later in the day, the two partner organisations held an exhibition of torture instruments. This was followed by a press conference and a street march, ending at a cinema, where the films “The Campaign against Torture” and “Marsho" [Freedom] were shown. Approximately 200 people participated in the

victims and their families.

Torture Victims (RCT) held their largest 26

GEORGIA: The HRIDC 26 June event included an antitorture action.

events, which were covered by television and

June event so far. The RCT was present at

France

the rock festival “Roskilde Festivalen”, which

The Arab Commission for Human Rights

is a four-day festival with around 75,000

(ACHR) commemorated 26 June 2003 by

Georgia

focusing on torture in the Arab world. There

The Centre for Protection of Constitutional

Germany

were testimonies by torture survivors from

Rights collaborated with a number of human

Behandlungszentrum für Folteropfer Ulm held

music, a film-showing, sale of t-shirts,

several countries, and almost 60 people par-

rights NGOs on commemorating 26 June, the

a press conference on 26 June 2003, where

and other activities, and the events

ticipated in the event. A representative of the

first event being a football match between

they told about treatment at the centre,

received good coverage by national

ACHR was in Baghdad, Iraq, where he spoke

representatives from seven NGOs. On the eve-

financial perspectives, and centre statistics.

radio and television as well as by local

about the organisation’s collaboration with

ning of 26 June, a play was staged at the

The work of the centre received coverage by

radio stations and newspapers.

the National Association for Human Rights in

State Pantomime Theatre, dedicated to the

two newspapers and a radio station.

Iraq, and it is the hope of the ACHR to com-

UN International Day. The play was subse-

memorate 26 June 2004 in Baghdad.

quently broadcast on national television.

participants from many different countries. The RCT had organised poetry recitals,

DENMARK: RCT volunteer painting the RCT-logo as a “tattoo” on a visitor’s arm.

ETHIOPIA: Musicians performing at the RCVTE 26 June event.

radio stations, newspapers, and news agencies.

Nürnberger Menschenrechtszentrum, together with Amnesty International in Nuremberg and

The Human Rights Information and

the local authorities, organised a round-

Documentation Center (HRIDC) collaborated

table discussion focusing on the international

with the Georgian Center for the Physical

legislation against torture and the situation in

Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture in com-

Germany. Some 30 people participated in the

memorating the UN International Day in 2003.

event, which was well covered by local media. 13

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The African Commission of Health and

The Medical Rehabilitation Center for Torture

Human Rights Promoters (CAPSDH) held a

Victims (MRCT) issued a press release on

seminar on 26 June on the theme “Together

26 June, and an interview with the MRCT

against Torture – Call for Action”. The seminar

Medical Director, former IRCT President

was attended by approximately 300 people,

Dr Maria Piniou-Kalli was published in the

and there were speeches by prominent people

wellknown newspaper Elephtherotipia.

and testimonies by torture survivors. The

Furthermore, three other newspapers published

CAPSDH also issued a press release and or-

articles about the MRCT and 26 June, and a

ganised two visits to prisons, where they

documentary about the work of the Center

talked to prisoners and prison officers.

was shown on television.

India The Centre for Care of Torture Victims (CCTV) organised a seminar focusing on the problem of torture and the responsibilities of the CCTV. Around 40 people participated. The Centre for the Enquiry into Health and Allied Themes (CEHAT) commemorated 26 June 2003 by presenting a play which depicted various forms of torture. The performance took place at the University of Mumbai

Amnesty International in Ghana (AI-Ghana) collaborated with the Chrismek Rights

GHANA: Presents for the prisoners were handed to prison officers during the CAPSDH prison visits.

Action des Chrétiens pour l’Abolition de la

Foundation in the organisation of their 26 GHANA: Announcement of the winners of the ACAT-Tamale essay competition.

June event, where representatives from the

speakers at the event, and praise for the

Torture in Haiti (ACAT-Haiti) wrote to 14

security agencies, the church, NGOs, and the

work of the Islamic Peace Movement and the

churches, requesting prayers for victims of

media were present. There were a number of

Coalition of African NGOs Against Torture. The

torture in connection with the UN International

Ghana

an art and drawing competition. Students

speeches, and postcards were distributed,

event received coverage in several news-

Day. On 29 June, ACAT-Haiti organised a di-

Action des Chrétins pour l’Abolition de la

and teachers showed great enthusiasm, and

encouraging Heads of State to take action

papers.

scussion forum about torture, focusing on the

Torture in Tamale (ACAT-Tamale) collaborated

the drawings inspired them to suggest diffe-

against torture. AI-Ghana also launched the

need for a human rights education programme

with members of the local Amnesty Inter-

rent strategies for finding solutions to the

book “Combating torture: a manual for action”.

in Haiti. The ACAT-Haiti Coordinator was

national group in organising a 26 June event

problem of torture. The fourth activity was a

for the students at St. Joseph’s Complex.

discussion with the media, which was trans-

Firstly, there was a thanksgiving mass in

Greece

interviewed on radio about the importance

The Islamic Peace Movement organised an

The Hellenic Psychiatric Association held a

of 26 June.

lated into the local languages and broadcast

essay competition for around 1,000 students

seminar for some 120 people, including aca-

commemoration of victims of torture,

on three radio stations. Towards the end of

at three different secondary schools, and prizes

demics, medical professors, ex-ministers and

followed by an essay competition on the

the day there was a march for the teachers

were awarded to the best students at an event

others. There were a number of speeches,

concept of torture. Later in the day, there was

and students.

on 26 June. There were several prominent

and the audience participated actively in the discussion.

Haiti

and was followed by discussions with the students. CEHAT has also started a petition, encouraging the Indian Government to ratify the UN Convention against Torture, which India signed in 1997. On 25 June, the Indian Medical Students’ Organization (IMSO) held an educational and interactive programme for school children in Ludhiana, and the children made drawings and participated in a writing competition. On the following day, IMSO held a seminar for senior officers from the district administration. The focus was on torture in police stations, and it was agreed by all participants that police officers need to be better educated about human rights. 15

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

INDIA: Children participating in the SEVAK art competition on 26 June.

The People’s Watch – Tamil Nadu declared

The Servant of the Disabled and Disad-

people participated, including police repre-

The Torture Prevention Center India (TOP

the week 18 June-26 June as an Anti-Torture

vantaged (SEVAK) organised an art com-

sentatives and members of the general public.

Center India) held an essay and speech com-

Week in the state of Tamil Nadu and the

petition and a discussion forum on 26 June.

The seminar was followed by a successful

petition for around 150 students in Kerala on

Union Territory of Pondicherry. People’s Watch

Furthermore, they sent an appeal to the

press conference, which led to newspaper

“How to prevent torture, terrorism, violence

collaborated with a number of other human

Indian Government, encouraging Indian ratifi-

coverage in the most read newspapers in

and war”. To congratulate the winners, a

rights groups, women’s groups, and minority

cation of the UN Convention against Torture.

Uttar Pradesh.

function was held on 26 June, where promi-

groups. On 18 June, the week was inaugu-

nent speakers distributed the prizes, and

rated in three different places by holding

more than 500 people participated. The TOP

simultaneous meetings and press conferences,

Center events resulted in a 30-minute discus-

announcing three rallies to take place between

sion programme on the Kairali Television station,

19-25 June. The three rallies moved across

and in an interactive radio programme on

the state along different routes, finally reach-

All India Radio. Finally, two major articles on

ing Salem. The rallies consisted of cultural

torture were published, and the 26 June events

groups that performed on themes relating

were covered by five different newspapers.

to torture. By the time the three rallies reached Salem, they had travelled around

The Vasavya Rehabilitation Center for Torture

1,000 kilometres and performed in 50-60

Victims (VRCT) organised several commemo-

places each, and the performances had

rative events in June 2003, including a sensiti-

been seen by around 230,000 people in

sation workshop for police staff, an exhibition

total. On 26 June, the UN International

INDIA: Two examples of the artwork produced by children as part of the SEVAK art competition.

of handicrafts, and a public meeting to raise

Day was commemorated in Salem

The Society for Social Research, Art and

through a one-day event with some

Culture – Shubhodaya Center for Rehabilita-

3,000 people participating. The three

tion of Victims of Torture and Violence

The Tamilnadu Muslim Munnetra Kazhagam

ticipated in the events, which were well cov-

rallies and the final event were all well

organised a one-day seminar on 26 June.

held public awareness meetings in two diffe-

ered by the media.

covered by local and regional news-

The main aim of the seminar was to create

rent towns, and more than 1,000 people

papers.

awareness, primarily among doctors, about

participated in the meetings, which received

torture and its consequences. Around 200

good newspaper coverage.

awareness and to express solidarity with victims of torture. Around 1,000 people par-

INDIA: TOP Center India collaborated with a number of associated NGOs and distributed 25,000 leaflets at 14 railway and bus stations.

INDIA: The VRCT organised a participatory community appraisal on torture of street children, and some of the children made a banner with palm imprints to express solidarity with the victims.

INDIA: Human chain formed by victims of torture in connection with the VRCT 26 June event.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

prison who explained that he had recently

The Rehabilitation Action for Torture Victims

been tortured. When asked if he might be

in Aceh commemorated 26 June 2003 at

tortured for speaking publicly, he answered

orphanages, where they organised several

that he was willing to take that risk for the

activities for the children, including a drawing

chance of being heard.

competition and prayers for peace and security

The ICMC also organised a cultural event

in Aceh.

Italy Associazione Italiana Fisioterapisti (AIFI) in Sicily collaborated with several other organisations in commemorating the UN International Day. Firstly, AIFI representatives spoke at the World Confederation of Physical

with music, speeches, theatre, and dance.

Therapy Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on

A local NGO, the LSPP, had produced a book

8 June 2003. On 13 and 18 June, AIFI held

on torture which was launched and distributed

lectures on rehabilitation and a press confe-

at the event. Testimonies and poetry recitals

rence, and on 26 June they organised an

followed the book launch, and around 1,000

exhibition, and several speeches were made.

people participated in the event. IRELAND: The CCST’s “Global Groove”poster. Survivors of torture had decided upon dance as the best medium to face the past while embracing hope for the future.

Asylum Seekers and Political Refugees in Italy (NAGA-HAR) arranged a special event in

INDONESIA: Poster advertising the ICMC cultural event on 26 June.

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN: Around 45 people participated in the ODVV round-table meeting.

Ireland

Milan on 26 June. The first part of the eve-

The Centre for the Care of Survivors of Torture

ning was dedicated to contributions and testi-

(CCST) marked 26 June with 12 hours of con-

monies from asylum seekers and political

Indonesia

Iran, Islamic Republic of

tinuous dance: “Global Groove – Move Against

refugees. Following this, there was a perform-

Representatives of the International Catholic

The Organization for Defending Victims of

Torture”. The event included dance and music

ance by a theatre company as well as a dance

Migration Commission (ICMC) were inter-

Violence (ODVV) commemorated the UN

workshops for survivors of torture and a fund-

performance and music. Around 150 people

viewed on two radio talk programmes on

International Day on 2 July, where they

raising event with performances by well-known

participated in the event.

Jakarta News FM, which has 18 million listeners.

hosted a round-table meeting to discuss the

dancers. Some 500 people participated in the

The speakers were torture victims, activists,

possibility of Iran ratifying the UN Convention

different events, which also received extensive

against Torture. The meeting was covered by

media coverage, including newspapers and

several news agencies and newspapers.

several radio and television stations.

and police and army representatives. One caller was a prisoner from an Indonesian

The Centre for Voluntary Assistance to

INDONESIA: At the ICMC event, both children and adults signed the ratification campaign postcards, encouraging the Indonesian President to ratify the UN Convention against Torture.

ITALY: AIFI magazine-article describing the UN International Day.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

IVORY COAST: At the AI-Ivory Coast event, many students stopped to talk to the volunteers.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Ivory Coast Amnesty International on the Ivory Coast (AI-Ivory Coast) had an information stand at the University of the Cocody Abidjan, informing the students about the UN International Day and encouraging them to engage in the fight against torture.

During the event, a police department repre-

awareness among the rural population of

sentative made a strong statement against

their Bill of Rights. On 24 and 25 June, there

torture. Afterwards, the collaborating organi-

were cultural events in three different districts

sations held a press conference, where a

to build public awareness, and on 26 June

statement to the government was also made.

there was a candlelight event, an exhibition

A total of some 500 people participated in

of children's art as well as a counselling

the events.

session to build teachers’ capacity to assist traumatised students. A total of 13,450

IVORY COAST: The information stand at the University af the Cocody Abidjah was visited by more than 2,000 students.

Kazakhstan The Resourceful Center of Civil Education “Sana Sezim” organised a number of public events on 26 June 2003, including street-

The Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU)

people are estimated to have participated in

held a symposium on 26 June 2003 to

the many events.

remember victims and survivors of torture in Kenya. The event attracted around 300 people, the majority being victims of state torture.

drawing, dance and poetry competitions as well as a press conference. The street events were covered by three television channels and

KENYA: The COHEP commemoration included a procession in Bungoma town, aiming to raise awareness among the public.

by local newspapers. IVORY COAST: Students were invited to pick up free information materials.

Kenya The Centre for Health, Population, Environment and Research Organization (COHEP) collaborated with a number of other organisations in their commemoration of the UN International Day. The day started with a public lecture on torture and related issues.

KENYA: On 26 June, the Kenyan Home Affairs Minister Moody Awori (right) officiated IMLU’s free medical camp at the Lang’ate Women Maximum Prison.

The Mwatikho National Rehabilitation Centre

24 June, a delegation visited prisons in four

for Victims of Torture organised a wide variety

different districts, presenting a memorandum

of events in connection with the UN Inter-

and protest notes, and handing donations to

national Day. On 20 June, there was a press

the prisoners. On 23 June, there was a band

release, focusing on the planned events.

march to protest against torture and to call

On Friday 20 and Sunday 22 June, a number

for the dismissal of all torturers from their

of mosques and churches prayed for torture

positions. Between 23 and 25 June, there

victims and their families. Between 21 and

were visits to the villages in order to create

KENYA: The Mwatikho National Rehabilitation Centre for Victims of Torture organised a survivors’ football match on 25 June.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Kyrgyzstan

Lebanon

Amnesty International in Kyrgyzstan organ-

The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of

ised two Youth Empowerment Camps for

Balamand wrote a newspaper article about

high-school students from rural areas. The

torture and organised a seminar for the

students received training in human rights

students of the Faculty of Health Sciences and

and gender issues, and they produced skits

the Faculty of Medicine – implemented in

and held poster contests on the issue of

collaboration with the Restart Centre. The

torture.

aim was to raise awareness of the problem of torture, its effects and rehabilitation require-

KOSOVO: Dr Ibrahim Rugova, President of Kosovo, signing the Declaration written by the KRCT.

ments. Also the national and international legal framework was discussed, and some 60 students participated.

Kosovo

KOSOVO: Declaration on the recognition and implementation of the UN Convention against Torture.

The Kosova Rehabilitation Center for Torture

The Khiam Rehabilitation Center for Victims

Victims (KRCT) published an announcement

of Torture (KRC) organised an “International

(1) a suggestion to hold a similar conference

importance of rehabilitation for survivors of

in different newspapers, calling for the public

Conference Against Torture” between 26-28

in 2004 in Iraq, (2) an encouragement to

torture. The following day, the President of

to support the 26 June 2003. Furthermore,

June. Representatives of the UN High Com-

those Arab countries that have not yet signed

the Restart Centre spoke about rehabilitation

they wrote a declaration on the recognition

missioner for Human Rights, the European

the UN Convention against Torture to do so,

at an event in Saida. Furthermore, the Restart

and implementation of the UN Convention

Commission in Beirut, and many human

and (3) a call to start an Arab network of

Centre organised a workshop for social-health

against Torture, and the declaration was

rights NGOs and rehabilitation centres were

NGOs against torture. Several newspapers

students and a workshop for volunteers in

present at the conference together with the

and radio stations covered the event.

the youth section of the Lebanese Red Cross

signed by the President of Kosovo, the Head of Parliament, and the Prime Minister of the Government of Kosovo.

LEBANON: Demonstration in Sidan, with participation of the former IRCT President and MRCT Medical Director, Dr Maria Piniou-Kalli (left).

KYRGYZSTAN: Students at the Youth Empowerment Camp carried out a mock picketing as part of their 26 June commemoration.

in North Lebanon. Finally, a television station

former IRCT President and MRCT Medical Director, Dr Maria Piniou-Kalli. The participants

The Restart Centre for Rehabilitation of

broadcast a programme about the UN Inter-

visited former Israeli prisons, and a “House of

Victims of Violence and Torture held a press

national Day. A total of some 500 people

Lebanese detainees” was inaugurated. The

conference on 19 June. On 26 June itself, the

participated in the various events, which also

recommendations of the conference were

Restart Centre organised a workshop about

received good newspaper coverage.

declared at a press conference, including

the UN Convention against Torture and the

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Lithuania The Lithuanian Nurses’ Organisation held two conferences to commemorate the UN International Day: On 26 June, the conference “Assistance for the patient who experienced torture” took place, and on 29 and 30 June a conference called “Together against Torture”

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

government representatives, one of the topics

four journalists were awarded prizes.

organised a training session for 25 police

being torture. On 28 June, AI-Mexico collabo-

Between 23-30 June, the RCTV-“Memoria”

officers, and Amnesty International organised

rated with a number of other NGOs in organ-

published and distributed a number of bro-

a public action where they collected over

ising a workshop, and on 30 June, they

chures about torture and the work of the

1,000 signatures for the defence of prisoners

organised a press conference. The workshops

centre. On 25 June, the above organisations

of conscience and victims of torture in Russia.

attracted more than 70 people, and the diffe-

collaborated with the Consortium against

Finally, the RCTV-“Memoria” organised an

rent events were well covered by the media.

Torture in sending out an appeal to the Mol-

essay competition for school children. The

dovan authorities, urging the government to

many events attracted over 2,000 participants

ratify the UN Convention against Torture and

and were well covered by the media.

was held. The main themes of the conferences were the concept of torture, obligations of

Moldova, Republic of

the Optional Protocol to the International

The Bureau of Legal Assistance for Individual

Convention on Civil and Political Rights. Also

Rights (BLAIR), the Moldovan Helsinki Com-

on 25 June, the RCTV-“Memoria” organised

Mongolia

mittee for Human Rights (MHC), the

a seminar for the beneficiaries of the centre.

Amnesty International in Mongolia presented

Rehabilitation Center for Torture Victims

In addition to the speeches made, there was

the books “Combating Torture” and “AI

Mexico

(RCTV-“Memoria”) and Amnesty Inter-

an exhibition with photos, books, handicrafts,

Report 2003” on national television on 25

Amnesty International in Mexico (AI-Mexico)

national in Moldova jointly organised an

and pictures made by clients at the centre,

June, and on 26 June they sent out press

collaborated with ACAT-Mexico, the Mexican

“Informative week dedicated to 26 June – UN

and over 80 people participated in the event.

releases about the UN International Day. They

Academy for Human Rights, and a number of

International Day in Support of Victims of

On 26 June, BLAIR and the MHC held a

also put up a stall in the capital’s main square,

other organisations in commemorating the

Torture”. On 23 June, there was a press con-

round-table discussion on “Improvement of

collecting 1,500 signatures against torture.

UN International Day. On 25 June, they or-

ference focusing on incidences of torture in

the police activity evaluation system – the key

Finally, they put up the 26 June campaign

ganised a press conference, presenting the

Moldova, particularly within the law enforce-

to success in torture prevention”. Forty-five

posters in Internet cafés, encouraging people

planned 26 June events and debating the

ment sector. At the press conference, BLAIR

representatives of the judiciary, the police, the

to sign against torture via the Internet.

problem of torture in Mexico. On 26 June,

and the MHC announced a contest for jour-

Ministry of Home Affairs, journalists, doctors,

AI-Mexico invited a number of human rights

nalists writing about torture. As a result, more

and human rights defenders participated in

specialists to a debate with legislators and

than 30 journalists wrote about the issue, and

the discussion. Also on 26 June, the MHC

governments, torture and the family, and the legal framework against torture. Some 220 people participated in the conferences.

Morocco The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Rabat celebrated 26 June in collaboration with Amnesty International in Morocco (AIMorocco), presenting the “AI Report 2003” at an event with some 125 participants. UNIC also organised an information programme at a school, where the 26 June campaign materials were used as prizes for the students.

Namibia The United Nations Information Centre and the Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) collaborated in organising an exhibition and several information stalls at different shopping centres in Windhoek. Furthermore, a LAC representative was interviewed by a local radio station.

NAMIBIA: LAC produced 26 June campaign materials in several languages and distributed it to the general public.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

journalists, lawyers, members of civil society,

“What is torture?” and “What are the con-

Finally, the CVICT partner organisation, In-

sequences of torture?” and they presented a

formal Sector Service Centre, organised an art

number of recommendations.

competition for students at four schools on the

On 26 June, the CVICT Sub-Centre of Nepal-

theme of “Torture in the Eyes of Children”.

gunj organised different programmes, including

The objective was to understand how children

a mobile health clinic, where 63 torture sur-

comprehend and define torture and to find

vivors received medical, psychological, and

out how much they know about the physical

legal services. In connection with the mobile

and psychological consequences of torture.

clinic, an interaction programme took place, where a number of prominent people talked

The Nepal Community Development Centre

about the problem of torture, and torture

(NCDC) organised an interaction programme

survivors gave testimonies. Some 50 people

with participation of students from five local

participated.

high-schools and representatives from local

The CVICT Branch Office in Tulsipur conducted

women’s groups. Two keynote speakers pre-

an interaction programme with approximately NEPAL: Peace rally in Saptari on 26 June, 2003.

50 people participating. Speakers talked

Nepal

NEPAL: As part of the NCDC 26 June event, students gathered to form a T-shape and continued on a street march to raise public awareness of the day.

sented papers about the current torture situation in Nepal, candles were lit, and participants

about international laws against torture and

signed a large flag with the “T”-logo to show

the situation in Nepal.

their support for a society that is “Together

NEPAL: Around 500 students participated in the NMCTH event, together with doctors and nurses.

The Centre for Victims of Torture, Nepal

government officials, and police and army

The CVICT partner organisation, Human

The Human Rights and Community Devel-

(CVICT) collaborated with other NGOs in

personnel.

Rights Forum in Ilam, organised a one-day

opment Academy, Saptari, observed the UN

observing the UN International Day. CVICT

The CVICT Sub-Centre of Biratnagar collabo-

anti-torture programme for human rights

International Day by organising three events.

Students from the Nepal Medical College &

and 30 students participated. The winners

and the National Human Rights Commission

rated with the Forum for Human Rights and

activists, lawyers, members of civil society,

Firstly, there was an awareness-raising session

Teaching Hospital (NMCTH) conducted a pro-

were announced at a Students’ Society event,

of Nepal jointly organised an interaction pro-

Environment in conducting an interaction

journalists, government officials, security

for 105 high-school students. Afterwards

gramme against torture. There were events at

and 26 June campaign materials were given as

gramme with several speeches and discussions

programme with participation of street children

personnel, and students. Nearly 80 people

there was a peace rally, and – finally – there

different schools and colleges, and the organ-

prizes to the winners.

about the torture situation in Nepal. The 130

and staff from ten clubs working with street

participated in this 26 June event.

was an interaction programme with speeches

ising students made presentations about

participants included human rights activists,

children. The children discussed issues such as

and discussion.

torture, and displayed and distributed posters

against Torture”.

The Nepal Pharmacy Students’ Society organised an essay competition among its members,

with anti-torture messages.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

NIGERIA: Students participating in an essay competition organised by the THPSC.

Netherlands Action des Chrétins pour l’Abolition de la Torture in the Netherlands coordinated an education project in schools about torture of

There were speeches by prominent speakers, and testimonies by survivors of torture.

“Torture, oh how perilous you are Causing sorrows day and night Awful and distraught I feel ‘cause of your existence.

Furthermore, poems were read aloud and students performed a play.

prisoners in Cameroon. Furthermore, a spokesperson was interviewed on the radio, talking about the abolition of torture.

The Consulting Centre for Constitutional Rights and Justice (C3RJ) organised a peaceful street march with the participation of students, volunteers, C3RJ staff, and the general

New Zealand At the Kapiti English Language Academy in Te Horo Beach, teachers of English for refugees organised a writing competition for some 40 students. On 26 June, the

public. There were also essay competitions at

NIGERIA: Students at the New Haven Boys Secondary School, where the IRCTV organised an extensive 26 June programme.

schools, and – finally – a discussion forum with presentations by prominent scholars. A

On 26 June 2003, the Human Right Solidarity

The Total Health Psychological Services Centre

total of 150 people participated in the events,

Movement organised visits to prison cells,

(THPSC) commemorated 26 June 2003 at a

which were also covered by the media.

police detention cells, schools, and colleges.

secondary school in Enugu. The programme

They talked to prisoners, detainees, and stu-

consisted of a lecture for some 300 students

dents about the problem of torture.

as well as an art exhibition with students’

winning students read out their essays and received campaign materials as

Tears I shed the day you’re mentioned, ‘cause you cause everlasting pains from generation to generation. How I wish you never exist at all. He who you visit never smile. A smile a day keeps the doctor away, but how can one smile? Anguish has overshadowed joy.”

artwork, a student essay competition, a

prizes. All other students received a The Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for

26 June pen and pin for their efforts.

drama presentation, songs, and prayers.

Torture Victims (IRCTV) collaborated with the

Nigeria Amnesty International Group 10 in Ibadan collaborated with the UNESCO Club of Yinbol College in holding a seminar on 26 June 2003, where some 1,000 people participated.

Sisters’ Fellowship International Group and

The Youth World Health Organization and

with Prisoners Rehabilitation and Welfare

Society for the Prevention of Torture held

Action in organising an essay competition at

seminars, lectures, and exhibitions in connec-

the New Haven Boys Secondary School –

tion with 26 June 2003, and some 3,000

Enugu. After the essay competition, there was

people participated in the activities. They also

a seminar about torture, the boys performed a

participated in a radio programme on 26 and

play, and there were prayers and a vigil.

27 June, and the newspaper Sunday

Excerpt from a poem written by Eze-Obo Marcel at the New Haven Boys Secondary School – Enugu as part of the essay and poem competition organised by the IRCTV.

Statesman published a full-page article on NIGERIA: Students participating in the C3RJ essay competition.

torture of children. 29

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The Human Rights Education Forum collabo-

Rahat – Voice against Torture (VAT) collabo-

rated with Amnesty International, Shikarpur

rated with Roshni Centre for Women in Crisis

Group, in holding a seminar and a discussion

and the Centre for Children in Crisis to com-

forum. Around 100 people from different

memorate 26 June 2003. There were speech-

political parties, NGOs, lawyers’ and medical

es, an art exhibition, distribution of infor-

associations participated.

mation materials, and essay and drawing

Palestinian Authority The Gaza Community Mental Health Programme (GCMHP) organised a solidarity stay-in at the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza, entitled “All support for Palestinian freedom prisoners”.

competitions for children. Torture survivors

PAKISTAN: Peaceful demonstration organised by the Mir Ghous Buksh Bizenjo Foundation on 26 June.

The Mir Ghous Buksh Bizenjo Foundation

and their children, health professionals, social

organised a peaceful demonstration, followed

workers, lawyers, and students participated in

by a lecture for school children about torture.

the event.

Finally, prizes were awarded to the winners of

Pakistan

Victims of Torture held a workshop on 26 June where representatives from human rights NGOs, the UN Office of the High Commis-

an essay competition about torture. Several newspapers covered the events.

The Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for

sioner for Human Rights, and the Ministry of PAKISTAN: Some 120 people participated in VAT’s commemorative event.

Ex-Detainees’ Affairs were among the speakers. Some 80 people participated in the

The Association for Human Development col-

workshop, which was covered by several

laborated with a number of NGOs in organ-

newspapers and one international press agency.

ising a seminar for 75 school children on 26 June 2003. The Health and Education Society Larkana collaborated with the Taluka Coordination Council of NGOs of Larkana in organising a seminar on 26 June 2003. Around 60 people participated in the seminar, focusing on the

PERU: UNIC organised events at several schools in connection with 26 June 2003.

Peru

bayeque Bar, they organised a conference

The United Nations Information Centre (UNIC)

addressing students and teachers at the Law

collaborated with different UN Friend Clubs

School, and – finally – there was an open-air

and several schools in organising a students’

exhibition which attracted a lot of attention

vigil, several conferences, a poster exhibition,

from the public.

and prayers. In collaboration with the Lam-

prevention of torture and the rehabilitation of torture victims.

PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY: At the stay-in, the GCMHP Director of Public Relations read out a press release calling on the world community to help prevent torture in Israeli prisons and to assist torture victims all over the world.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

The Xavier University Center for Legal

the event, which was also covered by three

Assistance (XUCLA) conducted three activities

newspapers and four local and national tele-

in connection with 26 June 2003. The first

vision stations.

was a photo exhibition in front of the University library. The second was a lecture on

The ICAR Foundation – Medical Rehabilitation

torture, attended by students of Xavier

Center for Torture Victims, Iasi participated in

University. The third and final event was a film

a 26 June commemoration, making a presen-

showing, also for the University students.

tation on “Practices of Torture in Dictatorial Systems” and distributing information materials. SIRDO – Romania Independent Society of

Poland

Human Rights had organised the event,

The Centre for Victims of Political Perse-

where speakers talked about different aspects

cutions organised an event in Krakow,

of the problem of torture and its prevention.

including a lecture about the rehabilitation of torture victims and a presentation of the film PHILIPPINES: A large number of students participated in the XUCLA 26 June events.

“Returning to life”. This was followed by a discussion among the participants, totalling

ROMANIA: The ICAR Foundation and the CNRR co-organised the seminar “Investigation and Documentation of Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment”.

some 30 people.

Philippines

group performed. There was also a press

Amnesty International in the Philippines and

release, and the event was covered by several

the United Against Torture Coalition (UATC),

newspapers.

which consists of nearly 30 government and

Russian Federation On 26 June 2003, COMPASSION, Humanitarian and Charitable Center (Compassion Centre) concluded a five-year programme

During the week of 26 June, the ICAR

with the office of the UN High Commissioner

“Compassion for Mercy” aimed at poor, elderly

Romania

Foundation – Medical Rehabilitation Centre

for Refugees and other UN agencies in Romania.

torture victims who continue to suffer from

Amnesty International Initiative Group in

for Torture Victims, Bucharest organised and

the torture they endured many years ago.

non-government organisations, co-organised

The Balay Rehabilitation Center, which is also

Bucharest organised an event at a school

participated in two events dedicated to the

The ICAR Foundation – Medical Rehabilitation

Since 1998, the programme has collected

the commemoration of 26 June 2003. The

a member of the UATC, visited seven prisons

where around 30 students and 10 parents

UN International Day. The first was a seminar,

Centre for Torture Victims, Craiova organised

more than 20,000 US dollars, and with this

UATC invited to “The Gathering: Stop the

to meet prisoners who had complained about

and teachers participated. The children had

which was organised in collaboration with the

a 26 June event which included speeches, a

money Compassion Center purchased

Use, End the Abuse”, where some 100 people

maltreatment. Balay representatives also di-

read about torture and written essays about

Romanian National Council for Refugees

religious service, debates, and the launch of

medicine, orthopaedic equipment, and food,

participated. Different UATC members gave

scussed the issue of torture with the prison

what they had learnt. The children showed

(CNRR). The second seminar, “Refugee Access

two different books, written by torture sur-

which was distributed to more than 500

presentations, a film was shown, and a theatre

officers.

great enthusiasm, and they all received prizes.

to Health Care Services”, was co-organised

vivors. Around 40 people participated in

elderly men. 33

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Rwanda

Senegal

Sierra Leone

South Africa

Forum des Activistes Contre la Torture collab-

Victimes de Violence Rehabilitées (VIVRE) col-

The Grassroots Empowerment for Self

In Pretoria, different South African groups

orated with a number of other organisations

laborated with the Legal Information Centre

Reliance (GEMS) organised several events to

of Amnesty International (AI-South Africa)

in commemorating 26 June 2003. The event

of the African Network for Integrated

commemorate the UN International Day. On

organised a peaceful street march on 26

opened with speeches, and all participants

Development as well as other human rights

23 June, a one-hour radio programme was

June, and this was followed by a candle-

were given 26 June campaign materials.

organisations. In the morning, there was a

broadcast on the UN-radio station UNAMSIL,

lighting ceremony with speeches and testi-

Afterwards, everybody lit a candle and con-

press conference, and in the afternoon a

entitled “The role of civil society in combating

monies. The participants were encouraged

centrated on the hope being represented

round-table discussion. Some 50 women sur-

torture”. Two days later, there was another

to sign anti-torture postcards and a petition.

by the light.

vivors of torture and violence participated in

radio programme, this time on the national

The media was well represented, and the

the discussion, and the event was well cove-

radio SLBS. Also on 25 June, there was a

AI-South Africa Press Officer was interviewed

red by the media.

candlelight vigil with participation of traditional

by nine radio stations and by national

leaders, torture victims, government officials,

television.

school children, and NGO representatives.

AI in Durban organised an event at the

After the candlelight procession, victims gave

Nelson Mandela School of Medicine. The

testimonies, and there was a play. On 26 June

students were encouraged to write messages

itself, a peace pole was unveiled at a square

in support of victims of torture, and there

in Makeni Town, with the objective to serve

was a photographic display and a signature

as an encouragement for everyone to join

collection. The students observed a moment

hands to ensure that peace prevails and that

of silence and lit candles. A similar event was

atrocities are not repeated. After the unveiling,

organised in front of Durban City Hall.

participants marched through the city, ending

Amnesty International in Cape Town had a

at the GEMS care centre, where speakers

stall at the exhibition at the Holocaust Centre,

praised GEMS’ support for victims of torture.

organised by the Trauma Centre for Survivors

SENEGAL: VIVRE dedicated 26 June 2003 to women who are victims of torture.

Serbia and Montenegro The International Aid Network Centre for

for a petition to make torture an offence

Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (IAN-CRTV)

under the domestic criminal code. The final

organised three different events to commem-

event was on the evening of 27 June: a

orate the UN International Day. The first was

round-table discussion on “Surviving torture

a press conference on 24 June, where

and trauma: psychological, legal and social

IAN-CRTV launched the Serbian translation of

implications”. There were several distinguished

the book “Torture Reporting Handbook”. The

speakers and a good discussion with the

second event was an information stall, where

participants.

IAN-CRTV staff informed the public about the problem of torture and collected signatures

SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO: Flyer produced by IAN-CRTV to inform about their 26 June programme.

of Violence and Torture.

SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO: Around 450 people signed the petition organised by IAN-CRTV.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

various NGOs, and the general public. The

On 21 June, Carrefour de Développement

exhibition finished with a discussion on com-

and Espace Juridique pour le Bien-Etre Social

munity reparation, and it received good tele-

(EJUBES) participated in a training seminar in

vision coverage.

order to strengthen their capacity in the field of torture prevention and protection mechanisms. On 26 and 29 June, they participated

SOUTH AFRICA: AI’s event at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine in Durban.

Sri Lanka

in radio broadcasts about torture, and on 30

The Family Rehabilitation Centre (FRC) launched

June there was a radio quiz where 26 June

26 June with a Peace Walk followed by a

campaign materials were distributed to the

commemorative event. Some 100 students

winners. The two organisations also held a

and 13 teachers from 10 different schools

public debate, and a debate about torture of

participated together with representatives

women and children. The same issue was the

The Trauma Centre for Survivors of Violence

from the media, human rights organisations,

and Torture (TCSVT) has commemorated 26

the government, prisons, and the army, total-

June since 1999. In 2003, they collaborated

ling around 235 people.

SRI LANKA: The FRC event included presentations, a peace dance, and a theatre performance.

TAIWAN: Some 70 people participated in the street march organised by AI-Taiwan.

topic of a broadcast on the radio station Peace FM. Finally, postcards were sent to the President of Togo, encouraging ratification of

with the Khulumani Support Group, the

Taiwan

Togo

the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention

Human Rights Media Centre, the Cape Town

Amnesty International in Taiwan (AI-Taiwan)

Amnesty International in Togo (AI-Togo)

against Torture.

Holocaust Centre, and the District 6 Museum

Switzerland

and the Human Rights Class of Kaohsiung

collaborated with the Catholic parish of

in organising an exhibition on 24-26 June.

At the University of Zurich, an information

Hsin-sing Community University organised a

Franciscans of Ahanoukopé in holding a mass

The exhibits were the result of creative work-

stand and exhibition attracted the attention

street march on 26 June. As part of the

for victims of torture on 21 June. Between 26

shops aimed at helping to recall traumatic

of many students. The focus of the event was

demonstration, they collected signatures to

June and 3 July, AI-Togo organised interviews,

memories during apartheid. Visitors to the

the persecution and torture of members of

appeal to governments of different countries

debates, and plays which were broadcast on

exhibition included more than 300 students,

Falun Gong in China.

on behalf of torture victims and prisoners of

two different radio stations. Later in July, they

conscience.

collaborated with the American Cultural Centre

a large number of dignitaries, the media,

TOGO: Carrefour de Développement and EJUBES organised several events which focused on torture in the community and the family.

in organising a conference on the topic of SRI LANKA: The students participating in the FRC event were all dressed in white clothes and 26 June T-shirts.

“International Law and the Crime of Torture”, in which around 80 people participated.

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

Furthermore, five members of the Center of

performed by the Zimbabwe Association

Law Enlightenment ran 135 kilometres from

Choir. This was followed by a procession to

Kakush to Synevir Lake, wearing 26 June

the Zimbabwe High Commission where

T-shirts. On the way, they talked to people

wreaths were laid for torture victims. There

about the global “Together against Torture”

was also an exhibition of writings by and

campaign.

photographs of victims of torture. There were activities outside the High Commission all afternoon, attracting a lot of attention from

United Kingdom

passers-by. The events were widely covered

The Traumatic Stress Clinic held a one-day

by the media.

conference on 25 June, entitled “The Mental Health Needs of Refugees”. Presenters included United Kingdom, and some 90 people partici-

United States of America

pated in the conference. On the evening of

The Center for Victims of Torture (CVT) held

25 June, the Traumatic Stress Clinic held a

two events to commemorate the UN

panel discussion on torture, where around

International Day, one in Washington, D.C.,

40 people participated.

and one in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The

specialists working with refugees in the

UGANDA: The ACTV organised a press conference, where torture survivors were interviewed by journalists.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: At the Eclipse Award Ceremony, Dr Inge Genefke (centre) met with the Danish Ambassador to the USA, Ulrik A. Federspiel (left) and Executive Director of the CVT, Douglas Johnson (right).

Uganda

Ukraine

The African Centre for Treatment and Reha-

The Center of Law Enlightenment collabo-

bilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV) com-

rated with the Association of Educators of

The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum

United States Congress, where many

tree-planting ceremony. The event attracted

was a picnic for staff and clients at the project.

memorated the UN International Day in the

Kakush in organising a 26 June event for

collaborated with the Zimbabwe Association

distinguished guests were present to show

many survivors and their families, staff, volun-

The second was an open house at the F.I.R.S.T.

week leading up to 26 June. The focus of the

school children. The older children were

in organising a function on 26 June 2003. In

their support to survivors of torture and to

teers, and donors.

Project premises on 26 June, the objective of

events was the increasing level of torture

encouraged to write essays about torture,

the morning, there was a church service to

honour the CVT’s 2003 International Eclipse

committed by security or military agents in

and the younger children to make posters or

express solidarity with torture victims in

Award Winner, Dr Inge Genefke, Ambassador

For Immigrants and Refugees Surviving

living in the local community and to launch a

the country.

drawings. At the end, the essays were read

Zimbabwe. More than 150 people partici-

to the IRCT.

Torture Project (F.I.R.S.T. Project) in Lincoln

new volunteer programme. Altogether, over

aloud to all, and the most active students

pated, listening to moving testimonies by

The CVT´s Minneapolis event included a

organised two different commemorative

100 people participated in the two events.

were awarded prizes.

Zimbabwean torture victims and to music

picnic, crafts for children, an international

events. The first took place on 22 June and

event in Washington, D.C., was held in the

which was to raise awareness of torture survivors

choir, statements of support, and a 38

C A M PA I G N A C T I V I T I E S W O R L D W I D E

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: Survivors of Torture, International organised a “Speak Truth to Power” exhibition featuring photographs by human rights defenders.

The Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services, Florida

attracted around 50 people. On the evening

At the latter, four survivors of torture from

Center for Survivors of Torture collaborated

of 26 June, some 150 guests gathered in a

different parts of the world appeared as

with Amnesty International in organising a

church in Chicago for an evening of interna-

expert witnesses together with experts from

client-focused event with members of the

tional food and performance, poetry, dance,

TASSC, Dr Inge Genefke, IRCT Ambassador,

Tampa Bay Refugee Task Force, community

and reflection.

and Douglas Johnson, Executive Director of the CVT.

service providers, advisory board members, volunteers, clients, and staff. There were

Survivors of Torture, International in San

speeches, testimonies by torture survivors,

Diego held a press conference, an art exhibition,

and a presentation by representatives from

a reception with live music, and an evening

Uruguay

the University of South Florida’s Falun Dafa

event with speeches, dramatic presentations,

Amnesty International in Uruguay collabo-

Practitioner Group, talking about human

and survivors’ testimonies. A total of around

rated with Mundo Afro in organising a round-

rights violations in China. Around 60 people

200 people participated in the two events.

UZBEKISTAN: LAS organised a social gathering after the 26 June round-table discussion.

VENEZUELA: A doctor from Red de Apoyo being interviewed by a journalist.

table discussion on the topic of “Memory,

Committee of Human Rights on Uzbekistan

to support the UN International Day, to

Torture and Impunity”, focussing on the last

were read aloud to the participants, who also

express solidarity with torture victims and

On 26 June, the Torture Abolition and Sur-

military civil Uruguayan dictatorship (1973-

engaged in a subsequent discussion of the

their relatives, and to support the establishment

vivors Support Coalition (TASSC) in Washington,

1985). Approximately 60 people participated

human rights problems in the country.

of rehabilitation centres and reparation

Treatment of Survivors of Torture in

D.C., was joined by more than 80 survivors of

in the event, which was well covered by the

Chicago organised a performance by

torture from 29 countries or ethnic groups.

media.

a local theatre group, and the play

The theme was “Zero tolerance for torture”

Venezuela

revolved around civil rights that have

and the programme included meetings with

Red de Apoyo por la Justicia y la Paz organ-

been taken away from people in the

US government officials, interviews with the

Uzbekistan

Yemen

ised a number of events to commemorate

The Law Offices of Sheikh Tariq Abdullah col-

United States in the wake of

press, a one-day forum on strategies to combat

The Legal Aid Society (LAS) organised a

26 June 2003. There was a play performed by

laborated with AMIDEAST which is an organi-

September 11, 2001. The play was

torture, and a 24-hour candlelight vigil.

round-table discussion with participants from

volunteers of Red de Apoyo, distribution of

sation that teaches English to students and

followed by speeches and the

Survivors of torture gave testimonies at the

the international community, the legal com-

information material, statements to the

professionals in different fields, including

testimony of a torture survivor, and

congressional Subcommittee on International

munity, and the general public. The Special

media, and the collection of signatures.

doctors and lawyers. AMIDEAST arranged for

Terrorism, Non-proliferation and Human

Rapporteur on Torture, Mr Teo van Boven,

Rights and at the Congressional Human

visited Uzbekistan in 2002, and his report

Furthermore, the Venezuelan National Assem-

winners were announced at a gathering,

Rights Caucus.

as well as the recommendations of the

bly signed and published an agreement

receiving 26 June campaign materials as prizes.

participated in the event. The Marjorie Kovler Center for the

two different bands played. Amnesty International were co-

mechanisms.

the students to write about torture, and the

organisers of this event, which 40

S TAT U S O F T H E U N C O N V E N T I O N A G A I N S T T O R T U R E

States which have RATIFIED or acceded to the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

States which have NOT RATIFIED the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

134 States as at 10 October 2003

60 States as at 10 October 2003

Afghanistan Albania Algeria Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia 42

S TAT U S O F T H E U N C O N V E N T I O N A G A I N S T T O R T U R E

Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Chad Chile China Colombia Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Costa Rica CĂ´te d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Estonia Ethiopia Finland

France Gabon Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Guatemala Guinea Guyana Holy See Honduras Hungary Iceland Indonesia Ireland Israel Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia

Lebanon Lesotho Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Malawi Mali Malta Mauritius Mexico Moldova, Republic of Monaco Mongolia Morocco Mozambique Namibia Nepal Netherlands New Zealand

Niger Nigeria Norway Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russian Federation Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles Sierra Leone Slovakia Slovenia Somalia South Africa Spain

Sri Lanka Sweden Switzerland Tajikistan Timor-Leste Togo Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Uganda Ukraine United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Yemen Zambia

Andorra Angola Bahamas Barbados Bhutan Brunei Darussalam Central African Republic Comoros Cook Islands Dominica Dominican Republic Eritrea Fiji

Gambia Grenada Guinea-Bissau Haiti India Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq Jamaica Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Lao People's Democratic Republic

Liberia Madagascar Malaysia Maldives Marshall Islands Mauritania Micronesia, Federated States of Myanmar Nauru Nicaragua Niue Oman

Pakistan Palau Papua New Guinea Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Singapore Solomon Islands Sudan Suriname

Swaziland Syrian Arab Republic Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tuvalu United Arab Emirates Vanuatu Vietnam Zimbabwe

H O W T O J O I N T H E 2 6 J U N E 2 0 0 4 C A M PA I G N

IRCT GLOBAL REPORT 2003

We encourage you to commemorate 26 June 2004!

How to support the IRCT

For the third consecutive year, the IRCT has

can learn from each other’s experiences or

International Rehabilitation Council

Securing the necessary funding for the reha-

published this Global Report on the UN

that you can plan your 2004 event together.

for Torture Victims (IRCT)

bilitation of torture victims remains one of our

Borgergade 13

greatest challenges.

By credit card

Danske Bank

International Day in Support of Victims of

Donations to the IRCT can be made:

By bank transfer Our account details are:

Torture. The report gives a good overview of

The IRCT website (www.irct.org) will once

P.O. Box 9049

Through the extraordinary efforts of health

Please visit the IRCT website

Holmens Kanal Branch

the many different types of events held on

again provide a forum through which you can

DK-1022 Copenhagen K

professionals worldwide, thousands of torture

(www.irct.org) to make a credit

Holmens Kanal

26 June 2003, as part of the IRCT’s “Together

share your plans for this important day with

Denmark

victims have been rehabilitated and wide-

card donation.

DK-1090 Copenhagen K

against Torture” campaign.

other campaign participants. Written 26 June

ranging prevention activities have been imple-

Denmark

campaign materials will also be available on

Phone: +45 33 76 06 00

mented. However, the work of many centres

By cheque

We encourage you to use this report as inspi-

the website, together with updated information

Fax: +45 33 76 05 00

continues to be under threat due to limited

Please send a cheque that is made

ration when considering what type of event

about the extent to which the IRCT can provide

E-mail: irct@irct.org

funds. The rehabilitation of torture victims is

payable to

to plan for 26 June 2004. We also encourage

campaign materials.

Website: www.irct.org

a long-term commitment. The recovery of

you to collaborate with other organisations in

S.W.I.F.T. DABADKKK USD account: Registration No: 3001

torture victims is greatly impaired if treatment

International Rehabilitation Council for

Account No: 4310-005029 IBAN: DK18 3000 4310 0050 29

your country which have an interest in the

For more information on how to join the

is suspended due to funds being exhausted.

Torture Victims (IRCT)

fight against torture. You may find that you

26 June 2004 Campaign, please visit our

Moreover, there are still many parts of the

Borgergade 13

website or contact:

world where treatment or support is not

P.O. Box 9049

DKK account:

available for victims of torture and their

DK-1022 Copenhagen K

Registration No: 3001

families.

Denmark

Account No: 4310-821152 IBAN: DK90 3000 4310 8211 52 EUR account: Registration No: 3001 Account No: 3785-041941 IBAN: DK32 3000 3785 0419 41

Back cover illustrations: Left: Students participating in an essay competition organised by the THPSC, Nigeria. Right: More than 200 children contributed to the art competition organised by the CRTS, Bangladesh.

Phone: +45 33 76 06 00 Fax: +45 33 76 05 00 E-mail: irct@irct.org Website: www.irct.org

Synergi 70 27 90 03

IRCT Borgergade 13 P.O. Box 9049 DK-1022 Copenhagen K Denmark