International human rights law prohibits torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This prohibition is recognised as one of the most important protections of human dignity.
PUBLIC LEGAL REFERENCE
Freedom From Torture and Cruel Treatment
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Torture is prohibited under international law and cannot be justified by exceptional circumstances such as war, emergency or national security concerns.
Torture generally involves the intentional infliction of severe physical or mental pain or suffering for purposes such as obtaining information, punishment, intimidation or discrimination.
International law also protects individuals from treatment that causes serious physical or mental suffering or attacks human dignity, even where it does not meet the legal definition of torture.
The Convention Against Torture requires States to prevent torture, investigate allegations, prosecute responsible persons and provide protections against removal to situations where torture may occur.
States must take effective measures to prevent torture, train officials, establish safeguards, investigate complaints and ensure accountability for violations.
The prohibition against torture applies during armed conflict and states of emergency. International law does not permit suspension of this fundamental protection.
Students should understand that torture is absolutely prohibited under international law, States have duties to prevent and punish violations, and human dignity must be protected in all circumstances.
Students should understand that freedom from torture is an absolute human right, requiring States to prevent abuse, investigate violations and provide remedies.
The prohibition of torture is a fundamental rule of international human rights law. States must prevent torture, investigate allegations, punish responsible persons and provide effective remedies for victims.