Fact Check: Torture is illegal under international law.

Fact Check: Torture is illegal under international law

What We Know

The claim that "torture is illegal under international law" is supported by several key international treaties and conventions. The most significant is the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1984. This convention explicitly defines torture and establishes that no exceptional circumstances, including war or political instability, can justify torture (Article 2). Furthermore, Article 1 of the convention provides a clear definition of torture, stating that it involves the intentional infliction of severe pain or suffering for various purposes, including obtaining information or punishment.

Additionally, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights both affirm the right of individuals not to be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. These documents underscore the global consensus against torture, reinforcing its illegality under international law.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as it is grounded in widely recognized international legal frameworks. The Convention against Torture, which has been ratified by numerous countries, serves as a cornerstone of international human rights law. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) emphasizes that torture is prohibited at all times, without exception, and that this prohibition is a fundamental principle of international law.

The reliability of these sources is high, as they originate from established international bodies and treaties. The OHCHR is a reputable entity within the UN system, tasked with promoting and protecting human rights globally. Furthermore, the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment regularly reports on the status of torture worldwide, highlighting ongoing violations and the need for compliance with international standards (Special Rapporteur on torture).

However, it is important to note that despite the clear legal prohibitions, torture continues to be practiced in various parts of the world, often with impunity. Reports from organizations like Human Rights Watch indicate that torture remains a pressing issue, suggesting a gap between international law and its enforcement.

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim that "torture is illegal under international law" is True. The prohibition of torture is enshrined in multiple international legal instruments, including the Convention against Torture, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These documents collectively establish a strong legal framework against torture, which is recognized globally, despite ongoing challenges in enforcement and compliance.