Torture by deprivation

Nature

Deprivation is used to torture prisoners for the purpose of breaking down resistance, demonstrate absolute control by the torturers and humiliate the prisoner. The range of deprivation is from total sensory deprivation to being denied access to professional service like medical and legal. Sleep, food, and water deprivation are common. Confinement to cells without the opportunity of exercise or even social contact is used in some cases. Relatives are denied access to prisoners or even the knowledge of their imprisonment.

Background

Torture by deprivation emerged as a recognized global concern in the mid-20th century, particularly following reports from political prisoners and detainees during and after World War II. International attention intensified with documentation of sensory, sleep, and food deprivation in state-run detention centers, notably during the Cold War. Human rights organizations and United Nations bodies have since highlighted its prevalence, leading to expanded monitoring and legal frameworks addressing these covert, non-physical forms of torture worldwide.

Incidence

Torture by deprivation has been reported in countries including: South Africa, Chile, Colombia.

Claim

Torture by deprivation is a grave and urgent human rights crisis. Denying individuals basic needs—such as food, water, sleep, or social contact—is a cruel and inhumane practice that inflicts deep psychological and physical harm. This form of torture is often hidden, making it even more insidious. The international community must recognize deprivation as a serious violation and take immediate, decisive action to end this abhorrent abuse wherever it occurs.