DEFINITION OF TORTURE A summary of article 1 of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment TORTURE MEANS: FOR WHAT PURPOSE WHAT an act inflicting ● ● ● severe pain or suffering either physical or mental pain which is done intentionally for such purposes as ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● obtaining information obtaining a confession punishing for an act committed or suspected of having been committed BY WHOM by a public official or any person acting in an official capacity ● ● ● inflicted directly by the official, or at the instigation of the official, or with the acquiescence of the official intimidating or coercing someone discrimination of any kind Torture does not include pain or suffering arising only from lawful sanctions There can be no justification for torture, not even a state of war or emergency or orders from a superior officer or a public authority (article 2) Other acts of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, which do not amount to torture as defined in article 1, shall also be prohibited and prevented (article 16) OHCHR Police Trainer’s Guide Session 7 (Detention)/Handout 91