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Understanding the U.N. Treaty Against Torture

NCJ Number
222672
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 33 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2008 Pages: 28,29,32
Author(s)
Gary Hill
Date Published
March 2008
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article attempts to provide a better understanding of the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT), specifically in the area of detention.
Abstract
Today, more attention is being paid to international human rights instruments dealing with the subject of torture due to the publicity surrounding individuals being detained and allegedly subjected to torture in the “war on terror.” One of these instruments is the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT). OPCAT is the first international instrument that aims to prevent torture in places of detention and protect people deprived of their liberty by establishing a two-pillar system of regular visits to such places. OPCAT was signed by 60 states and ratified by 34 states in October 2007. Neither the United States nor Canada has signed OPCAT. The process of getting more nations to sign and ratify OPCAT is continuing through efforts of such international nongovernmental organizations as the Association for the Prevention of Torture. With few people really understanding what OPCAT actually states, how such an instrument comes into being or what a nation’s obligations are under it, this article attempts to offer a better understanding of OPCAT. Endnotes