Given the continued widespread practice of torture at the threshold to the new millennium, the Symposium urges the following action at the national level
Sensitisation of the political leadership to issues concerning torture.
Accession to the UN Convention against Torture where this has not taken place.
Accession to the Statute of Rome on the establishment of the International Criminal Court.
Expediting revision of national laws to deal comprehensively with the prosecution of tortures and reparation to victims of torture.
Significant increase in the number and size of state contributions to the UNVFVT (United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture) as well as identification of a systematic canvassing of potential supplementary donors to the UNVFVT.
The systematic and effective monitoring by national human rights institutions of instances of torture, particularly of custodial violence.
Undertaking of every effort to promote a culture of non-violence and the respect for human rights.
Repealing of laws providing impunity to torturers.
Special consideration to practical ways of protecting women and children against torture.
Greater involvement of all components of civil society, including health, legal and other professions as well as non-governmental organisations and the media in the fight against torture
Accession to the UN Convention against Torture where this has not taken place.
Accession to the Statute of Rome on the establishment of the International Criminal Court.
Expediting revision of national laws to deal comprehensively with the prosecution of tortures and reparation to victims of torture.
Significant increase in the number and size of state contributions to the UNVFVT (United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture) as well as identification of a systematic canvassing of potential supplementary donors to the UNVFVT.
The systematic and effective monitoring by national human rights institutions of instances of torture, particularly of custodial violence.
Undertaking of every effort to promote a culture of non-violence and the respect for human rights.
Repealing of laws providing impunity to torturers.
Special consideration to practical ways of protecting women and children against torture.
Greater involvement of all components of civil society, including health, legal and other professions as well as non-governmental organisations and the media in the fight against torture