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Torture

Resolution number
22
Whereas
  1. Following the September 11th tragedy, articles have appeared in mainstream media on the justification of the use of torture under exceptional and emergency conditions;
  2. The use of special drugs (truth serums) is recommended by some enforcement elements against suspected terrorists and this recommendation has been reflected by media;
  3. The Canadian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Convention against Torture through C-11;
  4. Refugees and other uprooted people are more vulnerable to torture and other cruel, inhumane and degrading treatments and punishments;
  5. The level of public education on the scourge of torture is low and CIC and IRB officials need special training on the subject;
Therefore be it resolved

That the CCR call on the government of Canada to:

  1. Reaffirm its commitment not to use torture under any emergency condition whatsoever;
  2. Work for the prevention and eradication of torture and the prosecution of torturers at the international level;
  3. Reaffirm its commitments to UN principles of medical ethics and assure that no drugs will be used on prisoners or detainees except for the purposes of healing;
  4. Allocate a budget and work with NGOs and specifically the CCR towards organizing public education programs and special education programs for CIC and IRB officials;
  5. Assure that other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatments and punishments will not be used in Canadian prisons and detention centres;
  6. Closely collaborate with the UN Committee against Torture with the aim of strengthening the Committee and responding to its concerns;
  7. Increase its financial contributions to the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture.
Working Group
Inland Protection