CAT

Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

Anti-Torture Official Text

The Convention Against Torture is a global treaty that protects everyone from being tortured or treated in cruel or degrading ways by governments and officials. For asylum seekers and refugees, it's especially important because it bans countries from sending people back to places where they might face torture, which means the UK cannot deport someone if there's a real risk they'll be tortured in their home country. The treaty is monitored by a UN committee that reviews countries' records, though enforcement depends on political pressure rather than legal penalties. The UK ratified this treaty in 1988 and must investigate torture claims, prevent torture in its own institutions, and ensure no one is returned to face torture, though campaigners often criticise gaps between these commitments and actual practice.