Torture in Sudan

Facts about torture in Sudan

Freedom from torture is a universal and fundamental human right for all, as guaranteed under international law and defined in the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. It is expressly prohibited in 21 International Declarations and Conventions.

The number of reported cases of torture and alleged torture in Sudan has considerably decreased over the past year, however, the practice continues. The act of torture, in most cases, is carried out by security officers and other government forces, particularly the military intelligence and the various police forces against persons in police custody. In the majority of cases, the torture was carried out by groups supported by the GoS (militias in Darfur or students helping the security forces to control any opposition within the student movement). Generally, torture is used to extract information and confessions, which can be used to prosecute the victim in court regardless of their validity. There is an emerging pattern of certain groups been increasingly targeted and subjected to torture. This group are predominantly persons associated with the events in Darfur and students. However, persons from other groups are also at risk and have been subjected to torture.

The Sudanese government has signed but has not yet ratified the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

What is torture?

The UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment refers to: "an act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person", for a purpose such as obtaining information or a confession, punishment, intimidation or coercion, "or for any reason based on discrimination of any kind". The aim of torture is not to kill the individual but to breakdown the personality and identity of the individual.

Both physical and psychological torture is used in Sudan. SOAT has documented over 42 methods of physical torture and 15 methods of psychological torture in Sudan. Common methods include; solitary confinement, beatings, forced to stand in the hot sun for long hours, rape, hanging by the wrists, blindfolded, whipped with "Sots" (leather whips) and water hoses, sustained and humiliating exercise, damage to genitalia and exposure to bright lights. Methods of psychological torture include; witnessing the torture of others including family members, sensory and sleep deprivation, threats of violence; rape and mock executions, threats against family and friends, prevention of personal hygiene, restriction of movement, forced nakedness, and misinformation. Reports that has been issued by SOAT demonstrates an increase in the use of psychological torture, physical exercise, and the deprivation of medication and/or food. Many of these types of torture are found all over the world.

Torture usually takes place in detention centres, security centres, and prisons and in the past in Ghost Houses.

What are the effects of torture?

The effects of torture reach far beyond physical pain although physical pain is often the most serious and immediate. Torture also has acute psychological ramifications; the physical suffering is often accompanied by severe depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, withdrawal from society and family, insomnia, hallucinations and flashbacks. In addition survivors of torture often have a sense of guilt and shame which is then triggered by humiliation or the sense they have betrayed themselves, friends or family.

Who are victims of torture?

Victims of torture in Sudan are found in all main sectors of society, with suspected and potential opponents of the government being the main targets. These groups range from human rights and political activists, journalists, students, doctors, trade unionists, etc. Their ages range from 9 to 80 years and are both male and female. Frequently family members, friends and neighbours of these groups are also targeted.

Who are the perpetrators of torture?

Perpetrators of torture in Sudan are regularly selected from the Security Services and are especially trained in torture methods.

What can be done?

The effects of torture are treatable. The rehabilitation of torture victims and their families is a long process encompassing medical treatment and longer-term psychological rehabilitation. Since its beginning, SOAT has enabled the rehabilitation of hundreds of victims.

The practice of torture can also be challenged and will one day be eradicated through education, human rights campaigning and the growth of international respect for human rights.

Exposing torture and its perpetrators is the key factors in its prevention of torture as it makes it almost impossible for the perpetrators to live and work with total impunity. Publicizing the names of perpetrators sends a strong message to the perpetrators that they are known. Ensuring that survivors of torture receive justice through the punishment of the perpetrators of torture is an extremely important element. It sends a clear message to would-be torturers that they will be punished for participating in such violence.