U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken Condemns Torture on International Day in Support of Victims.
On June 26, 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken delivered a message on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, condemning the use of torture globally.
Blinken stated the United States’ unwavering stance against torture and recognized the courage, dignity, and humanity of victims and survivors.
Despite the absolute prohibition of torture under international law, Blinken highlighted the ongoing use of torture by governments as a tool of repression against detainees, human rights defenders, marginalized populations, and dissenting voices.
He called on all governments to take proactive measures to prevent torture, hold perpetrators accountable, and support victims and survivors.
The United States continues to back rehabilitation and justice programs for survivors through the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. Additionally, efforts to prevent torture include providing human rights and atrocity prevention training to security personnel and reinforcing accountability mechanisms.
“As long as any person anywhere suffers from torture, we will not waver in our commitment to eliminating it,” Blinken asserted, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to fighting against torture and supporting those who have endured its horrors.
