A Health and Human Rights article in this week’s issue of THE LANCET documents the increasing use of torture on criminal suspects and political opponents in Nepal, a country embroiled in civil unrest between state police and a well-armed and established Maoist opposition force.
Philip Stevenson describes how the long-term physical, social, and psychosocial consequences for survivors of torture are often severe, and outlines the role of the Centre for Victims of Torture, Nepal. This non-government organisation based in Kathmandu has been studying the effect of torture on survivors, and has implemented Nepal’s only treatment programmes for torture victims who have been brave enough to seek help.
Philip Stevenson comments: “In a country that has so far flouted any opportunity to redress the human rights situation since 1990, two things are clear: torture is still pervasive and the likelihood of change is slim. Increased international interest is necessary to encourage and enforce change, and the need for CVICT to maintain their stance against torture and to continue treatment programmes for survivors will probably increase as the “People’s War” gathers pace.”
Contact: Dr Philip C Stevenson, 35 Mervan Road , London, SW2 1DR,UK;T) +44 (0)7884 434794; E) philipcstevenson@netscape.net
The Lancet