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Special Features Back to International Practice

United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – June 26, 2010

Background

The United Nations has dedicated June 26 to individuals across the world that have suffered unimaginable harm through the practice of torture.  This day of recognition also praises those who work to prevent torture through research, policy and advocacy, and assist daily in the recovery of torture survivors.  This international day of support commemorates the date that the Charter of the United Nations was originally signed into action in 1945 to establish the UN and the date that the UN Convention Against Torture was implemented in 1987.  The Convention Against Torture affirms that UN Member States should “promote universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms” including the right of all human beings to be protected against torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. More than 100 countries, including the U.S., have ratified the Convention, demonstrating their will to take measures against practices of torture and ensure that acts of torture are punishable under criminal law.

The Role of Social Workers

Social workers believe in the dignity and worth of every person and work tirelessly in pursuit of peace and the elimination of human rights violations across the world.  Tactics of torture are profound human rights abuses that can result in physical wounds and long-term psychological damage.  Social workers are well trained and equipped to support survivors of torture and work through the healing process with their clients.  The work of the 2009 NASW Social Worker of the Year, S. Megan Berthold, is a notable  example of how social workers are actively involved in providing services to survivors of torture.  Berthold works for a non-profit organization providing psychological, medical, and case management services to torture survivors.  For more information on her role as a social worker assisting victims of torture please click here.

NASW supports the right of individuals not to be subjected to dehumanizing treatment and punishment and advocates for the elimination of the practice of torture.  The Association further calls for the protection of individuals from being detained and held indefinitely in secret, and advocates for policies within the U.S. government particularly in providing homeland security and combating terrorism that are consistent with human rights values and ethics.  In a time when security is of utmost concern to many countries around the world, we must not forget our commitment to human rights and human dignity. Social workers continue to urge U.S. leaders to promote humane treatment of detainees and prisoners in accordance with international law. 

Get informed

Click here for the official United Nations page on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.

Click here for the NASW Statement to Oppose Torture in Any Form.

Click here for the 2005 issue of the Journal on Rehabilitation of Torture Victims and Prevention of Torture, which provides an introduction to the issue of torture and an overview of treatment methods for survivors.

Click here to visit the National Consortium of Torture Treatment Programs website, a network of programs which exists to advance the knowledge, technical capacities and resources devoted to the care of torture survivors living in the United States and acts collectively to prevent torture worldwide.

Click here to visit the NASW Human Rights & International Affairs website and learn more about NASW’s approach to this and other human rights issues.

Take action

You can support survivors of torture on this day of recognition by joining in celebrations around the world or organizing your own event. For examples of the many activities happening on and around June 26, 1010 please click here.

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