Kyrgyzstan and OPCAT

Kyrgyzstan acceded to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment on December 29, 2008.

According to the Association for the Prevention of Torture (Switzerland), there are several NPM models in the world:

1. A new body specializing on the prevention of torture;
2. A national human rights institution, including the Ombudsman’s Office, which is commonly referred to as the Ombudsman + model;
3. A national institute for human rights involving civil society organizations;
4. A National Preventive Mechanism consisting of several organizations that are appointed to fulfill the respective objectives;
5. Other.

Each state chooses the model which is most effective in the local context. Kyrgyzstan has chosen the model of a new body specializing on the prevention of torture. This model works in 10 countries and has established itself as the best and most independent model. However, there is something special about the NPM model of Kyrgyzstan – it officially involves civil society organizations, which is also due to the fact that the supreme body of the NPM – the Coordination Council – must necessarily consist of members of non-profit organizations that are active in the field of combating torture and ill-treatment. Inthisway, Kyrgyzstanhasavery special NMP model.

The Law “On the National Center for the Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment” was signed by the Kyrgyz Republic President A. Atambaev on July 12.

Half of the states in the world expressed interest in the OPCAT system. As of February 2014, 72 states have ratified the OPCAT and 20 more have become members through signing the OPCAT. Many other countries are in discussions on the OPCAT ratification.

“Prevention of torture is not about solving problems that happened, but about causes and actions to prevent such problems”     

–    Victor Rodriguez, member of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture.