Description
In the past three decades, international and regional human rights bodies have developed an ever-lengthening list of measures that states are required to adopt in order to prevent torture. But do any of these mechanisms actually work? This study is the first systematic analysis of the effectiveness of torture prevention. Primary research was conducted in 16 countries, looking at their experience of torture and prevention mechanisms over a 30-year period. Data was analysed using a combination of quantitative and qualitative techniques. Prevention measures do work, although some are much more effective than others. Most important of all are the safeguards that should be applied in the first hours and days after a person is taken into custody. Notification of family and access to an independent lawyer and doctor have a significant impact in reducing torture. The investigation and prosecution of torturers and the creation of independent monitoring bodies are also important in reducing torture. An important caveat to the conclusion that prevention works is that is actual practice in police stations and detention centres that matters - not treaties ratified or laws on the statute book.
About the Author
Richard Carver is Senior Lecturer in Human Rights and Governance at Oxford Brookes University Lisa Handley is President of Frontier International Consulting and was formerly professor of political science at George Washington University and University of Virginia.
Reviews
Reviews 'This book is important because it is the first evidence-based feedback on the many efforts of national and international actors in the field of torture prevention. The findings of the research can provide concrete and actionable material for those who work in the field of torture prevention, enabling them to focus on and invest in what works rather than only going along with a formatted response - which sadly is often the norm.
Olivier Chow, International Review of the Red Cross
Book Information
ISBN 9781781383308
Author Richard Carver
Format Hardback
Page Count 320
Imprint Liverpool University Press
Publisher Liverpool University Press
About the Author
Richard Carver is Senior Lecturer in Human Rights and Governance at Oxford Brookes University Lisa Handley is President of Frontier International Consulting and was formerly professor of political science at George Washington University and University of Virginia.
Reviews
Reviews 'This book is important because it is the first evidence-based feedback on the many efforts of national and international actors in the field of torture prevention. The findings of the research can provide concrete and actionable material for those who work in the field of torture prevention, enabling them to focus on and invest in what works rather than only going along with a formatted response - which sadly is often the norm.
Olivier Chow, International Review of the Red Cross
Book Information
ISBN 9781781383308
Author Richard Carver
Format Hardback
Page Count 320
Imprint Liverpool University Press
Publisher Liverpool University Press
