Submissions on Combating of Torture of Persons Bill

[B 21 of 2012]

These submissions represent the views of a group of organisations. We welcome the tabling in Parliament of the Combating of Torture of Persons Bill as it represents an important step in preventing and eradicating torture and other ill treatment in South Africa, demonstrating the state’s commitment to fulfil its obligations under international human rights law and the Constitution.

These submissions address, primarily, whether the contents of the Bill comply fully with the obligations imposed on the state in terms of international law. Accordingly, its contents will be examined against the requirements of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT). These submissions also include recommendations on what the Bill should include and/or exclude as well as suggestions on how the text could be amended.

It is the view of the organisations party to this submission that the Bill should aspire to establish a legislative framework that is as comprehensive as possible to facilitate South Africa’s compliance with duties under UNCAT.

Submissions on Combating of Torture of Persons Bill [B 21 of 2012]

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