time lapse of 30 years. Based on the conclusions of the study, the answer is “Yes,
preventing torture works!”, though some prevention measurse are much more
efficient than others. The most significant are the guarantees to be applied within
the first hours and days after a person is taken in custody. Notifying the family
and providing access to an independent lawyer and physician have a significant
impact in reducing torture. The criminal investigation and prosecution of
torture acts, as well as creating independent monitoring bodies, also play a
significant part in reducing torture.
A fundamental assumption of monitoring is that it takes place in the context
of a preventive approach, aimed at preventing infringement of human rights on
an individual or systemic level, before it takes place . Monitoring also has a
corrective approach, outlining the areas where improvements are needed.
Based on the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and
Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the
Subcommittee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading
Treatment or Punishment was established within the Committee for the
Prevention of Torture, and state parties agreed to establish, appoint or maintain
more or several national visiting bodies for the prevention of torture and
inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (NPMs).
Within the visits, the Subcommittee for the Prevention of Torture and National
Prevention Mechanisms have:
● access to all information regarding the number of persons deprived
from freedom in detention places, as well as the number of these places and their
location;
● access to all information regarding the treatment applied to such
persons, as well as detention conditions;
● access to all detention places and their facilities and arrangements;
● the possibility to meet with persons deprived from freedom, with no
witnesses, either personally or with an interpreter, if required, as well as any other
person that may provide relevant information;
● the freedom to choose the places they want to visit and the persons they
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