IRCT [to 16 April 2016]
http://www.irct.org/

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Statements & declarations
IRCT joins call to ensure protection and rehabilitation of torture victims in Hong Kong
12 April 2016
The IRCT has joined more than 90 organisations and 70 prominent individuals in calling for the cessation of hostility and stereotyping of refugees in Hong Kong.

In a statement released yesterday, the organisations reject the Hong Kong Government’s proposals to withdraw from the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) and to create closed detention camps for refugees as ill-advised, harmful, and a potential breach of international laws.

“We are shocked to learn that the Hong Kong Government is contemplating a withdrawal from the UNCAT. No country has ever withdrawn from the UNCAT, and to do so because they are not willing to protect torture victims from further abuse is shameful,” said Asger Kjaerum, Director of Advocacy.

Rather than incarcerating refugees, including high numbers of torture survivors, the IRCT recommends that current refugee processing procedures are reviewed and revised to ensure prompt identification, documentation and rehabilitation for victims of torture and ill-treatment.

“Instituting a proper system of forensic evaluation of torture allegations will help the Government effectively identify torture survivors and ensure that they receive adequate support during and after the asylum process. This must include prompt access to rehabilitation services and asylum procedures sensitive to the vulnerable situation,” concludes Mr. Kjaerum.
Joint statement
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News
New issue of Torture Journal calls for more research
11 April 2016
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Statements & declarations
IRCT and international NGO coalition pressures Mexico on anti-torture law
07 April 2016
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News
IRCT receives German grant to promote documentation and rehabilitation for torture victims in the Philippines
05 April 2016