EU Presidency declaration on the eradication of torture

The eradication of torture wherever it occurs is a priority concern of the European Union. That is why the European Union has vigorously supported the adoption of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture at the UN General Assembly.

In 2001 the Council adopted a comprehensive set of Guidelines to EU Policy towards Third Countries on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The guidelines serve to identify ways and means to effectively work towards the prevention of torture and other inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment within the framework of EU's foreign and security policy.

In order to ensure a systematic implementation of these guidelines the Political and Security Committee has adopted a working paper on the implementation of the guidelines on torture.

The working paper introduces systematic reporting by EU Heads of Mission on possible patterns of torture in their country of residence. On the basis of these reports as well as other reliable sources the EU will decide on specific action for the prevention of torture.

Such action may include demarches to countries, which have refused entry to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, follow up action on the implementation of the rapporteur's recommendations and action in relation to countries where a consistent pattern of torture continues to prevail. The EU may also carry out demarches on well-documented individual cases of torture and urge the authorities in the country concerned to ensure physical safety, provide information and apply relevant safeguards. The EU will call for prompt investigation, accountability for perpetrators of torture and rehabilitation, redress and reparation for victims. The EU will urge countries, which have not yet done so, to accede to the UN Convention Against Torture and take up other issues listed in the guidelines against torture.

These elements will also be included in EU's human rights dialogues and political dialogues where relevant and in declarations and statements in international forums.

Preventing torture is also considered a priority in bilateral and multilateral cooperation for the promotion of human rights. The EU will inter alia consider offering support for the implementation of recommendations of the UN Committee against Torture and other relevant institutions and in setting up independent mechanisms for the investigation of allegations of torture as well as technical assistance for such investigations.

The working paper will be a revolving document, which will be updated and revised in the light of experience and in cooperation with other relevant actors in this field.

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• EU Presidency declaration on the International Convention against Torture (19/12/2002)