In his presentation to the General Assembly, Sir Malcolm spoke about the need for effective, practical implementation for meaningful improvement on protection and prevention of torture – in particular through the establishment of National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs) - as well as a need for additional support for the SPT.

As a result of the work of the SPT and the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT), systems for regular visits to places of detention, as part of an international system of torture prevention, are now a reality in over a quarter of all states within the international community.

Sir Malcom reflected on positive developments made this past year, including contributions towards two major practical initiatives: the production of a publication in the UN Professional Training Series, ‘Preventing torture: the Role of National Preventive Mechanisms’, which is intended as a Guide for States as well as NPMs themselves, and the Alliance for Torture Free Trade, led by Argentina, the EU and Mongolia.

However, the presentation also highlighted the work that remains; although 60 NPMs have been set up in countries around the world, a significant number of OPCAT state parties have not yet done so. Furthermore, the presentation emphasised the lack of resources that is negatively impacting the capacity to undertake vital SPT visits and assist states in the effective implementation of NPMs. 

 Sir Malcolm’s presentation concluded:

“I am conscious that this has been a year of mixed fortunes for the SPT. We have seen many positive developments in terms of further ratifications and the establishment of NPMs.

At the same time, we have seen some scaling back of our activities as a result of resourcing issues, and there has also been the regrettable necessity of terminating a visit prematurely.

More positively, there has been excellent collaboration with partners both within and beyond the OHCHR and the UN more generally – and above all else the idea of looking at human rights issues through the lens of prevention is increasing prominent. We think this is right. There must always be remedies for breach; there must always be accountability for perpetrators, there must always be redress for victims and survivors. But above all there has to be less opportunity for torture to take place – and that is what the OPCAT is intended to help achieve.”