Social isolation as torture

Nature

Isolation from other human beings is used in a number of ways as torture, including solitary confinement. Generally, in its extreme form the prisoner never sees another human being for months at a time and when he does it is his torturers. In less extreme forms prisoners are denied the right to receive visitors or access to medical or legal assistance as punishments. In some cases access to the prisoner is only made available after a confession or other incriminating evidence has been obtained and formal legal charges have been made.

Background

The recognition of social isolation as a form of torture emerged in the late 20th century, notably through reports on solitary confinement in prisons and its psychological effects. International concern intensified following United Nations investigations and documentation by human rights organizations, which highlighted its use in various countries as a method of coercion or punishment. Growing empirical evidence and advocacy have since established social isolation as a global human rights issue, prompting calls for legal and policy reforms.

Incidence

Social isolation has been reported in the following countries: (Africa) South Africa, Zambia; (America) Guyana, Haiti, Uruguay; (Asia) Afghanistan, Bangladesh, United Arab Emirates.

Claim

Social isolation as torture is a grave and urgent human rights crisis. Depriving individuals of meaningful human contact inflicts deep psychological harm, often causing lasting trauma. This practice is not just inhumane—it is a deliberate assault on a person’s dignity and mental health. Ignoring the devastating impact of social isolation as torture is morally indefensible. We must recognize and condemn this cruel treatment, demanding immediate action to end its use everywhere.

Counter-claim

Social isolation as torture is vastly overstated and not an important problem. Unlike physical torture, it leaves no visible scars and is often a matter of personal perception. Many people choose solitude and thrive in it. To equate social isolation with genuine torture trivializes the suffering of those subjected to real, physical harm. Resources should focus on more pressing human rights abuses, not on exaggerated claims about the effects of being alone.