Lignes directrices de Robben Island pour la prohibition et la prévention de la torture en Afrique
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| In the struggle against torture in Africa the Guidelines and Measures for the Prohibition and Prevention of Torture, Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment in Africa, commonly called the Robben Island Guidelines (RIG) are important. The publication suggests several approaches to national bodies for ensuring their effectiveness. Following adoption of the RIG by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) during its 32nd session in October 2002, endorsement by the African Union Summit of Heads of State and Government at their meeting in Maputo (Mozambique) in July 2003 and the meeting of the Ouagadougou experts (Burkina Faso) in December 2003, it was time to draw attention to the practical elements ahead of implementation by national actors. The 50 articles of the RIG are analysed with an emphasis on the need for a methodical and phased approach to their application. An assessment of the legal framework but more especially the practice in each country in light of the RIG provisions is proposed in order to identify needs and priorities and take appropriate action. To be effective and coherent, priority initiatives should be integrated into a detailed action plan, with a timetable if possible. The publication does not simply identify the main questions to be analysed but, more importantly, puts forward a number of recommendations addressed to political, legal and prison authorities as well as African civil society. All these sectors have an influence on guaranteeing humanity in prisons and prevention of torture on the African continent. |
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