2015 OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting

Side event: Mechanisms to investigate torture allegations in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: Problems and solutions

The NGO coalitions against torture in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights (Poland) and International Partnership for Human Rights (Belgium) are concerned that in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan no effective investigations are conducted into allegations of torture and other forms of ill-treatment in most cases, thus perpetuating a vicious circle of torture and impunity. In many cases victims are afraid to lodge complaints for fear of reprisals.

As parties to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment all three countries have committed themselves to conduct prompt, thorough, impartial and independent investigations, wherever there is reasonable ground to believe that an act of torture has been committed. They have also committed themselves to protect the complainant and witnesses against reprisals, such as further torture, ill-treatment or intimidation.

Read the full document here.