Global Policy Forum

Iraq: Broken bodies, tortured minds: Abuse and neglect of detainees in Iraq

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Amnesty International reviews torture in Iraq by Iraqi officials since the US invasion in 2004. It focuses primarily on the use of torture and its effect on victims and their families. Also discussed is sexual violence, poor conditions in Iraqi prisons, and deaths as a result of torture. The report is illustrated throughout by a number of photos and startling first-hand accounts by victims and family members. It concludes by describing ways readers can take action by contacting Iraqi and American officials.

Amnesty International
February 2011

Torture and other ill-treatment were widespread in Iraq before the US-led invasion in 2003 and continued in prisons and detention facilities controlled by coalition forces and the new Iraqi governments. Since 2004, suspects held in Iraqi custody have been systematically tortured and dozens of detainees have died as a result. After US forces handed over tens of thousands of prisoners to Iraqi custody between early 2009 and July 2010 without any guarantees that they will be protected, there is every likelihood that torture and ill-treatment will remain widespread. Such abuses have a devastating impact on the victims not just when they are being tortured or ill-treated, but often for years afterwards or even for the rest of their lives. Urgent action is needed to end the pattern of abuse and to help the victims and their families.

To read the full report, click here.

 

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