UNCAT Ratification Tool
Institutional reform is also recommended to allow for independent and effective
investigations, robust chains of responsibility, or visits by experts who can work with
national authorities to reduce the risks of abuse;
Development of reparations programmes and rehabilitation services for victims of abuse;
Capacity building and training are critical tools to change cultural barriers and educate
judicial and operational officials; and
Public awareness programmes on the rights enshrined in the Convention.
5.3. Mainstreaming Training for key State actors
Raising awareness of the UNCAT among all relevant actors from multiple government departments is
a significant challenge to new States parties, but one which may be overcome with the assistance
and support of States, institutional partners and other actors.
Staff in key sectors, such as police and corrections officers, judges and prosecutors, health
professionals, and others should be introduced to the Convention and its obligations at an early
opportunity, targeted to meet each of their specific needs. Training should be mainstreamed so that
all new staff are given training in full compliance with international standards and existing staff are
re‐trained in areas of inconsistent practice.
5.4. Preparing an effective Initial Report
Pursuant to article 19 of the Convention, all States parties to the UNCAT must submit reports
periodically to the Committee against Torture (CAT), and the initial report is due within one year of
ratification.
When a State party is reviewed by the CAT, the State must describe how it has implemented the
obligations of the Convention and the Committee will make recommendations for further necessary
reforms to enable better implementation.
The perceived burden of reporting is often cited as one of the reasons that States do not ratify the
UN Convention against Torture. Though the reporting process to the Committee against Torture does
take time, it is an essential part of implementing the Convention. Reporting gives States an incentive
to reflect on the steps taken to ensure national operation of the rights afforded by the Convention,
and provides an opportunity to rally the diverse national actors and authorities around the required
reforms. Furthermore, the cooperative dialogue with the Committee often provides specific and
practical advice to enable more effective implementation.
The process of reporting has undergone some significant changes in the last few years to make the
process more streamlined and less of a burden for States. Further changes are likely, and up to date
information should always be sought from the CAT Secretariat (+41 22 917 97 06, cat@ohchr.org) or
on the CAT website (http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/cat/).
After submission of the State report, the CAT will schedule an initial review with the State party as a
priority. The national report will be examined in detail with the State delegation during an interactive
dialogue with the CAT. The CAT will then adopt concluding observations and recommendations,
some of which should be followed up with the State party within a year.
Theoretical timeline for preparation of an Initial Report and CAT Review:
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