Dear Friends,
As we honor June as Torture Awareness Month, we reflect on the resilience and strength of torture survivors around the world. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about the realities of torture and the ongoing need to support those who have endured unimaginable suffering. It is a time for us to come together, educate ourselves and others, and take action to prevent torture and support survivors on their healing journeys.
Historical and Humanitarian Significance: Torture Awareness Month was established to commemorate and honor the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, observed annually on June 26th. This day marks the anniversary of the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, which was adopted in 1984. The convention represents a significant global commitment to eradicating torture and supporting victims. Torture Awareness Month extends this commitment, highlighting the ongoing struggle against torture and the need for continued advocacy and support for survivors.
The Lasting Impact of Torture + Why Advocacy Matters:
- 171 countries are state parties to the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. However, according to Amnesty International, reports of torture have been received from at least 141 countries in the past five years.
- Survivors of torture often suffer from long-term psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Physical health impacts can include chronic pain, cardiovascular issues, and neurological disorders.
- Torture survivors have most often lost family, home, country, livelihoods, and they frequently have been brutally damaged emotionally and physically, leaving them with little hope and few resources to carry on productive, meaningful lives.
- If survivors of torture are fortunate enough to escape from their country or region of torture, they face the challenge of how to survive in their new country. They may be physically safe, but the devastating physical and psychological effects of the torture often continue. This is where organizations such as SURVIVORS come in to support the ongoing psychological, emotional and physical needs of torture survivors.
Advocacy for torture awareness matters because it shines a light on human rights abuses, mobilizing efforts to end such practices and support survivors in their healing journey. By raising public awareness and influencing policy, advocacy helps to ensure justice, accountability, and the prevention of future torture incidents.
