The troubling case of tortured human rights campaigner Shahab Al-Yasiri has prompted questions about the wider implications for democracy, human rights, and international law.
Introduction
Shahab Al-Yasiri has become linked to torture and human rights abuses in Iraq. Since becoming a victim of torture, he has dedicated a significant portion of his life to fighting against it. But because the government continued to abuse and punish him, his advocacy came at a high price.
The Torture
Al-Yasiri was imprisoned for his actions on June 16th, 2020, and subjected to horrendous torture by the authorities. He was abused physically and mentally in addition to being beaten and electrocuted. He was also denied access to legal representation and medical care. While being tortured, Al-Yasiri refused to confess to crimes he didn’t commit and kept calling for an end to torture and other violations of human rights.Torture can have terrible effects on a victim’s physical and mental health. Serious physical injuries such as shattered bones, internal bleeding, and organ damage are frequently experienced by victims. They might also endure long-term psychological damage, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
The use of torture can have negative effects on society as a whole in addition to the harm done to the person. It erodes confidence in the legal system and challenges the rule of law. Also, because those who have experienced torture may feel a sense of injustice and a desire for vengeance, it might encourage resentment and radicalism.
The Implications
The torture of Al-Yasiri had a significant impact on human rights and the rule of law in his nation. Other dissidents and activists will take note that their activism may result in torture and persecution. Additionally, it erodes public confidence in the government and the validity of the legal system.
Torture is not merely an infringement on human rights; it also fails to elicit trustworthy information. Torture victims are more likely to admit guilt to crimes they did not commit, which can result in erroneous convictions and damage public trust in the legal system.
The International Response
The use of torture is prohibited under international law, including the Pact against the use of torture and other cruel, Abhorrent, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the use of torture is forbidden. Despite this, torture continues to be used in many countries, often with impunity.
The United Nations Convention against Torture was established, and a Special Rapporteur on Torture was appointed, as part of the international community’s efforts to address the issue of torture. Yet, more work needs to be done to guarantee that torture is prohibited and that victims obtain justice and compensation.
The Way Forward
The torture of Al-Yasiri and other violations of human rights in his nation must be denounced by the international world. To make the government respect the rights of its people and uphold the rule of law, diplomatic pressure and economic sanctions may be required.
Also, civil society organizations and activists must carry on with their work without being discouraged by Al-torture. Yasiri’s People must keep speaking up and pressuring their government to answer for its actions. There is never a justification for the use of torture because it violates human rights.
Conclusion
Shahab Al-Yasiri’s torture represents a blatant breach of human rights and an assault on democracy. Other activists and dissidents will take note that their activism may result in torture and persecution. The international community ought to condemn these violations and put pressure on the government to uphold the rights of its people. Notwithstanding Al-torture, Yasiri’s civil society organizations and activists must continue to press their government for accountability. The use of torture is a violation of human rights and cannot be justified under any circumstances.
References
- [1] https://www.gc4hr.org/news/view/2420
- [2] https://www.iraqicivilsociety.org/archives/11800
