On this International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the United States reaffirms our condemnation of torture wherever and whenever it occurs and stands in solidarity with victims and survivors of torture around the world. The absolute prohibition of torture is a human right enshrined in U.S. and international law. We recognize the bravery, humanity, and dignity of torture survivors around the world.
Despite near universal condemnation, we continue to see governments using torture and inhumane treatment as tools of repression against political opponents, members of marginalized populations, prisoners of war and other detainees, human rights defenders, and those who voice opinions with which these governments disagree. Our pursuit of accountability, as well as our support for survivors continues so long as victims of torture exist. As the largest contributor to the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, we support rehabilitation and justice programs to help victims around the world in their healing, and we urge other countries to support them as well.