INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF TORTURE

Please find the UN  Secretary General’s message for the International Day in support of Victims of Torture:
“As we mark International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, I
call on Member States to step up efforts to assist all those who have
suffered from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment
or punishment. 

This year is also the 25th anniversary of the Committee
against Torture. This body — along with other UN human rights
mechanisms such as the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and the
Special Rapporteur on Torture — is vital to strengthening a
victim-oriented approach that also includes a gender perspective. This
effort was further strengthened by the adoption this year of a UN Human
Rights Council resolution focussing on the rehabilitation of torture
victims.

I urge all Member States to accede to and fully implement
the Convention against Torture and support the United Nations Voluntary
Fund for Victims of Torture.  Let us work together to end torture
throughout the world and ensure that countries provide reparation for
victims.

Ban Ki-moon”