Torture is a repugnant practice and an abhorrent crime. It is prohibited in all circumstances. Without exception.

40 years ago, the international community marked a pivotal moment in the fight for human rights with the adoption of the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT).

The Convention remains one of the most critical instruments to prevent, prohibit, prosecute and punish torture, as well as to ensure the protection and participation of the victims and survivors.

Still, more action is needed to see it implemented in full.

In recent years, we have witnessed a disturbing rise in incidents of police violence, including ill-treatment and torture, in the context of peaceful protests.

The use of torture as a method to quash political dissent and to restrict civic space is unacceptable. Such actions undermine the very fabric of democracy and erode trust in the institutions and the rule of law. They fuel cycles of violence and unrest.

The EU contributes to the eradication of torture through various tools. For instance, by regulating international trade in torture-capable tools or restricting and monitoring their use within the Union. In 2017, the EU, together with Argentina and Mongolia, launched the Global Alliance for Torture-Free Trade to end the trade in goods used for capital punishment and torture. 63 States have joined the Alliance so far. Those who haven´t joined yet, should join the Alliance and commit to measures that control and restrict exports of these goods.

We must improve independent oversight, transparency, and accountability to mitigate the risk of torture and other ill-treatment. The EU will continue its work with the United Against Torture Consortium to this end. We will continue global advocacy and international cooperation to strengthen survivor engagement and partner countries’ judiciaries, to train law enforcement on human rights standards and programming for the rehabilitation and assistance to victims and their families.

On this important day, we recognise the tireless work of civil society organisations and human rights defenders to make the voices of those affected heard.

Torture is an extreme form of abuse of power. Its effects change lives across generations and are hard to repair. To every survivor, we say: we share your pain, and we support you in speaking up and in your journey toward healing and justice.

On 26 June, on the International Day in support of Victims of Torture, the EU calls for a zero-tolerance policy to torture and other ill-treatment. Everyone should join the fight for the eradication of torture and ill-treatment worldwide.