Torture through confinement

Nature

Other than beating, various types of confinement are the most frequently reported forms of torture. Victims are held in solitary confinement, sometimes without light, adequate air, sanitation facilities, or contact with other people. They may be held in cells so small they are unable to lie, sit or stand. Not infrequently, prisoners are crowded into cells or transportation vehicles so that they are crushed or asphyxiated. In rural areas, holes are dug and covered with bamboo or other materials where prisoners are kept for days or weeks. They may be bound with rope, chains, wire, handcuffs or fetters, sometimes so tight that circulation is impaired. Hooding involves placing a covering over the head so that the victim cannot see. It may be wet so that breathing is difficult. In other cases, gas masks are used.

Background

The global significance of torture through confinement emerged prominently in the mid-20th century, as reports from political prisoners and human rights organizations exposed systematic abuses in prisons and detention centers. International attention intensified following revelations of psychological and physical harm caused by prolonged isolation and overcrowding. Landmark investigations, such as those by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture, have since deepened understanding of confinement as a distinct and pervasive form of torture worldwide.

Incidence

Confinement has been reported in the following countries:

[Africa]

Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Morocco, Niger, Zaire

[America]

Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Honduras, Paraguay, Peru

[Asia]

China, India, Indonesia, Iran Islamic Rep, Israel, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan (Rep of China), Viet Nam

[Europe]

Albania, USSR

Claim

Torture through confinement is a grave and urgent human rights crisis. Isolating individuals in inhumane conditions inflicts deep psychological and physical harm, often leaving lifelong scars. Such practices violate basic dignity and undermine the very foundations of justice and morality. Turning a blind eye to this form of torture is unacceptable; we must demand accountability and immediate reform. No society can call itself just while permitting torture through confinement to persist.

Counter-claim

Torture through confinement is vastly overstated as a problem. Modern detention facilities are regulated, and claims of psychological harm are exaggerated. Society must prioritize safety and order over the comfort of those who have broken laws. Resources should not be wasted on this so-called issue when there are far more pressing concerns. The focus on confinement as torture distracts from real human rights abuses and undermines the justice system’s authority.