“Quiet Dialogue” on the important things: What does prohibition on torture mean for us?

As we approach the International Torture Victims Support Day, June 26, members of the Coalition against Torture and Impunity in Tajikistan share their subjective impressions when it comes to the meaning of prohibition on torture for them. These short, but strong statements are part of the campaign “Quiet Dialogue”.

«Prohibition on torture is not just an act of humanity. It is a legal and moral boundary that protects human from abuse of power. When a state keeps within this boundary, it affirms that human dignity is an important goal. Torture is when instead of law force is applied, and, so far as force is above rights, there is no justice». Khurshed Kurbonshoev, PO “Office for Civil Liberties.

 “Prohibition on torture goes to prove that the might of a state cannot excuse inhumanity”. Gulchehra Rakhmonova, Head of PO “Legal Initiative”.

“As a specialist for documenting cases of torture and cruel treatment, I often deal with stories of pain and suffering, behind which are not just violations of law, but sores at heart that cannot and should not be ignored.

Prohibition on torture is not just a rule of national or international law. It is the moral imperative, bounds that no one has a right to step over under any circumstances. Torture is the trampling underfoot human dignity. Torture causes not only bodily harm, but also destroys soul, makes emotionally frigid, and deadens person’s perception. There is not any evidence that could excuse torture.

Prohibition on torture is not a matter of politics or interests. It is the matter of humanity. It is the absolute and universal value. Therefore, if one fails to combat torture today, we ourselves or our relatives may face them tomorrow”. Khushbakht Isoev, PO “The World of Law”.

“Prohibition on torture is the unconditional recognition of the inherent dignity of the human person and bounds, which state shall never step over”. Zulfiya Musoeva, PO “Legal Initiative”:

 “Torture does not only cause grievous bodily harm, but also humiliates human dignity”. Kurbongul Kosimova, PO “Najoti Kudakon” (‘Save the Children’).

#SupportVictimsOfTorture #26June #HumanRights #TortureIsACrime