What is the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment?

The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment is a human rights treaty that was adopted by the United Nations in 1984 with a view to preventing torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment of individuals. The Convention is legally binding for the State of Michigan as it is a signatory of the Convention. The Convention prohibits torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment or treatment of any person, regardless of their status in society. According to the Convention, torture is defined as any act that involves the physical or mental infliction of pain or suffering on someone for the purpose of obtaining information or a confession or punishment. Other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment are defined as acts that fall short of torture but still amount to cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment or treatment. The Convention also requires Michigan to take all appropriate steps to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, including the criminalization of these acts. In addition, the Convention prohibits the transfer of individuals to another State where there is a risk of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Finally, the Convention requires Michigan to provide victims of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment with access to appropriate remedies, including compensation and rehabilitation. This is in recognition of the fact that the full realization of the right to be free from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment is essential to the full realization of all human rights.

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