In the modern era, the resurgence of torture is a disturbing trend we cannot ignore. Authoritarian regimes are cracking down on dissent, stifling activists, and causing immense harm. The return of Donald Trump to the presidency, a vocal advocate of torture’s effectiveness, only adds to the concern.
Having endured torture myself, I understand the gravity behind such statements. The casual acceptance of torture by a US President sends a dangerous message globally, signaling approval for abuse and repression by oppressive regimes.
For survivors like me, the indifference to our suffering is disheartening. It also serves as a chilling warning to those still vulnerable, suggesting a bleak outlook if torture becomes normalized.
As Trump’s second term coincides with the 40th anniversary of the UN Convention against Torture, the clear message that torture is always wrong and illegal is undermined. People worldwide face torture for simply advocating for basic rights like education, religious practice, peaceful protest, or voting.
At organizations like Freedom from Torture, the enduring impact of torture on individuals is evident daily. Survivors bear deep emotional scars that require specialized care for recovery, but the damage persists. Normalizing torture, whether in Washington or the UK, cannot be tolerated.
The immense influence of the US President holds global significance, impacting human rights efforts worldwide. Under Trump’s administration, actions like attacking the International Criminal Court and undermining the absolute ban on torture weaken international norms, emboldening despots to act with impunity.
The UK must not remain passive in the face of these challenges. It is crucial to assert unequivocally that torture is never permissible. However, the UK must first address its own shortcomings, such as recent legislation that undermines torture bans and proposals endangering survivors.
The current UK Government has a pivotal opportunity to lead globally in upholding human rights and the rule of law during turbulent times. Demonstrating commitment to the torture ban, both domestically and internationally, is essential for credibility, even with allies.
Reflecting on past mistakes, like involvement in the CIA’s torture program post-9/11, the UK must learn from history to avoid repeating such grave errors.
Now is the time for the UK to showcase its commitment. Upholding the absolute ban on torture, a cornerstone of human rights, is paramount. The UK should stand resolute against any attempts to normalize or justify torture, wherever they may arise.
Torture inflicts irreversible harm on lives, a fact I understand firsthand. Together, we must steadfastly defend human dignity, setting a strong example for the world to follow. The global community is closely observing our actions.
