Torture is an intentional act inflicted on a person with the intent to cause severe pain or suffering, whether physical or psychological. It is often used to obtain information, extract confessions, punish, intimidate or discriminate. It is usually committed by agents of the state or with their tacit consent, in a context where power is abused.

Torture is not limited to physical abuse such as beatings, burning or mutilation. It also includes forms of psychological violence such as prolonged isolation, threats, humiliation or sensory and sleep deprivation.

Considered one of the worst violations of human rights, torture is prohibited by international law , notably by the United Nations Convention against Torture adopted in 1984. This prohibition is absolute: it cannot be justified under any circumstances, even in times of war, political instability or the fight against terrorism.

Beyond the suffering inflicted on the individual, torture destroys families, traumatizes communities and erodes the fundamental values of human dignity. This is why organizations like ACAT Luxembourg are actively committed to its abolition throughout the world.

Torture has no place in a humane and just society.