The APF, in partnership with the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT), has launched a new online course on torture prevention. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) to play a pivotal role in ending the practice of torture in the Asia Pacific region.

Torture is a grievous violation of human rights that cannot be justified under any circumstances. Its prohibition is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”

The United Nations Convention against Torture also contains important provisions on the prohibition of torture, with its Optional Protocol reinforcing the obligation to prevent torture by establishing a system of regular visits to places of detention by international and national bodies.

While torture is prohibited under international law, its practice continues across the world. Combatting torture therefore requires the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders, including NHRIs. As national institutions with a mandate to protect and promote human rights, NHRIs are uniquely placed to take concrete steps to prevent torture in their countries.

As part of APF’s capacity development support to our members, the APF and APT has published a guide for NHRIs: Preventing Torture: An Operational Guide for National Human Rights Institutions, originally published in 2010 and updated in 2022 to include a greater focus on gender issues and the latest developments in the international norms related to torture prevention.

The course draws upon the contents of the guide, tailored to a micro-learning format and delivered through the EdApp platform via the APF Community – the APF hub for learning, collaboration and engagement.

NHRI staff from across the region have been invited to take part in the four-week course, which will run from 11 September to 6 October.

Date: 30 August 2023