IRCT REGIONAL REPORT 2016 The work of the IRCT As a network of 153 torture rehabilitation centres across 76 countries, the IRCT is the world’s largest membership-based civil society organisation working in the field of torture rehabilitation and prevention. Its key distinctive feature lies in a holistic health-based approach to torture rehabilitation. In addition, the organisation defines itself as private, non-partisan, and not-for-profit, as well as being governed by democratic structures. The IRCT’s diverse membership shares three common characteristics: each member is a legally independent organisation that is rooted in civil society; each provides services to at least 50 torture victims annually; and each is committed to sharing its experiences throughout the IRCT and beyond. IRCT member centres stem from all regions of the world. Given the very nature of the organisation, some of these centres may be newly established, small or fragile from an organisational perspective, while others have long trajectories of public service, appropriate budgets and solid funding structures. Together the movement is effective in fighting torture across the globe. The core strength of the movement stems from a triad of values: Solidarity, Equality and Democracy. The member centres participating in this report are all based in the European Union (EU) and offer a range of services for asylum seekers and refugees. These holistic rehabilitation services include medical, psychological, legal and social support to asylum seekers. Holistic support is essential for asylum seekers, in order to help them address the multi-faceted problems they may face as a result of past traumatic experiences and the post-migration situation in their host country. IRCT’s Network: 153 76 organisations countries page 3