On Wednesday 15 March 2023, the Convention against Torture Initiative (CTI) organised a briefing with 13 delegates from Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The delegates from Belize, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Nepal, Sudan, Tanzania, Timor Leste, and Trinidad and Tobago are attending the 52^nd session of the Human Rights Council as beneficiaries of OHCHR’s LDCs/SIDS Trust Fund.

CTI discussed on how the Initiative could support States as they ratify and implement the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT).

Numerous positive reforms were highlighted by the delegates, including steps taken to criminalize torture, to address gender-based violence and violence against children, and to strengthen oversight mechanisms in places of detention. Challenges regarding prison overcrowding and delays in the creation of national prevention mechanisms were shared. Furthermore, the delegates recognized how UNCAT ratification has opened opportunities for partnerships, including with the Convention against Torture Initiative, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Commonwealth.

Ratifying UNCAT has opened the door to a number of opportunities and partnerships to build up capacity and help with reporting.

– Ms. Robyn-Ann Mani, Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Fiji to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva.

CTI reiterated its offer of technical assistance to States on their journey to the ratification and implementation of UNCAT. CTI highlighted materials available, such as its Implementation tools and Police Resource Toolkit.

For States interested in how CTI can support their efforts towards ratification and/or implementation of UNCAT, please contact info@cti2024.org.