What Can Be Done?

There is no "magic cure" that will abolish torture world-wide once and for all. As long as the doctrine of sovereignty dictates inter-state interactions, no one will have the ability to hold recalcitrant states accountable for their behavior, or force states to take steps to abolish torture within their borders.

However, the power of shame should not be underestimated. Many states will go to great lengths to avoid being shamed on the world stage, and as long as that is the case, ordinary citizens and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) can help in the fight against torture. Two NGOs leading the fight against torture are Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. Amnesty International in 2005 published a "12-Point Programme for the Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment by Agents of the State" that calls on states to take steps to ensure that all prisoners and detainees are accessible to international bodies, take measures to safeguard prisoners and detainees against torture and other ill-treatment, to investigate claims of torture, prosecute those responsible, and take other measures.

The Torture Abolition and Survivor Support Coalition (TASSC) also suggests steps citizens can take to support those who have survived torture and make sure their stories are heard. In particular, they urge United States citizens to petition Congress to rescind the Military Commissions Act of 2006, which defines torture as "act intended to inflict severe or serious physical or mental pain or suffering" and which permits acts that fall short of this definition.

The issue of torture will not be resolved within the next couple years, or even within the next couple of decades. It will require significant and sustained advocacy on the parts of many people--governments, NGOs, and citizens alike. Fortunately, we have already laid a significant legal and social base for the eradication of torture. We must continue to build on it until torture is outlawed in every state in the world, and those who commit acts of torture are held accountable for their actions.


DISCLAIMER:
The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not in any way representative of the U.S. Government.