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 an international human rights treaty that was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1984. This convention is legally binding on all parties, including the state of Oregon. The Convention seeks to protect people from all forms of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. It requires a State Party to take effective measures to prevent acts of torture within its jurisdiction. In Oregon, the Convention applies to all people regardless of their race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. It doesn’t allow torture, or any cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment of any person. This includes mental or physical suffering, threats of violence, arbitrary detention, cruel and degrading punishments or other inhuman treatment. It also prohibits the use of corporal punishment, such as flogging, branding, mutilation, or electric shocks. The Oregon legislative assembly has decreed that violations of the Convention are considered criminal offenses and are punishable by imprisonment and/or fines. Anyone convicted of breaking the Convention can also be found civilly liable in an Oregon court of law. The Convention has had a tremendous impact on human rights law in Oregon. Most significantly, it has helped to protect individuals from cruel and degrading treatment, and has provided a legal framework for those seeking redress for such violations. It is an important step in the global effort to protect human rights.

Related FAQs

What is the purpose of human rights law?
What is the right to work?
What is the right to freedom of movement and residence?
What is the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women?
When did human rights law develop?
What is the right to freedom of assembly and association?
What is the International Labour Organization?
What is the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights?
How is the European Convention on Human Rights enforced?
What is the right to a fair trial?

Related Blog Posts

Protecting Human Rights: An Introduction to the International Law of Human Rights - July 31, 2023
Exploring Human Rights: Your Guide to Understanding Human Rights Law - August 7, 2023
Who Is Protected By Human Rights Law? - August 14, 2023
The Human Rights Act: Understanding the UK’s Domestic Legal Framework - August 21, 2023
Human Rights in the European Union: An Overview - August 28, 2023