Today marks the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, proclaimed by the United Nations as a call to uphold human dignity and the absolute prohibition of torture.
Turkey is a party to the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, signed on June 26, 1987. Article 2 of the Convention clearly states:
“No exceptional circumstances whatsoever, whether a state of war or a threat of war, internal political instability or any other public emergency, may be invoked as a justification of torture.”
This unequivocal prohibition leaves no room for interpretation: torture is absolutely forbidden under any circumstances.
However, in 2025, torture remains a grave concern in Turkey:
According to data from the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT), a total of 21,894 individuals have applied to the foundation for treatment and rehabilitation due to torture and ill-treatment over the past 34 years. In the last 10 years alone, this number has reached 7,548. In 2023, 781 people reported having been subjected to torture or ill-treatment.
There are currently 760 infants and hundreds of ill and elderly individuals in Turkish prisons, enduring inhumane conditions while awaiting justice.
We emphasize once more:
Torture is a crime against humanity; it can never be legitimized.
It is the duty of the state to amplify the voices of victims and ensure justice is served.
Indifference and impunity only pave the way for the continuation of this atrocity.
As Amsterdam Law Center, we collectively and firmly say:
“Zero tolerance for torture!”
We stand in solidarity with all victims of torture.
We raise our voices for justice, dignity, and accountability.
Amsterdam Law Center
