Anti-torture groups ‘should be re-established’

Two working groups on preventing torture and inhumane treatment should be re-established, Ombudswoman Maria Stylianou-Lottides said on Monday, marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.

In a statement, she highlighted that as part of her remit, she regularly carries out impromptu visits to places such as the central prisons, police holding centres, the Athalassa psychiatric clinic, care homes for the elderly and migrant reception centres.

Reports with recommendations follow every time, she added.

The aim of the visits is to ascertain the conditions people live in, and ensure peoples’ rights are upheld – including their right not to be subject to torture or humiliating treatment. As such, their living conditions must be deemed appropriate and dignified.

To this effect, Lottides said her office decided two working groups made up of ministry officials and social groups must be reinstated. The groups aim to contribute to the goals of preventing any cases of torture and abuse.

“This will strengthen our authority as a national mechanism preventing torture, as the independent and competent authority examining complaints who may be deprived of their freedoms,” she said.

“The vigilance, reinforcement, and activation of the capabilities of the independent institution as a mechanism for the prevention of torture is not an option but an obligation, and we continue to be present.”