“30 years Rebuilding lives”, artwork by victims of torture

Ms. Pillay
Ms. Doretti
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is a pleasure to welcome you all for this very substantive exhibit which commemorates the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. I especially thank the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for organizing this special event.

Dear Colleagues:
The respect for human rights forms one of the core principles of the work of the United Nations. It is enshrined in international law through the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Torture represents one of the most serious violations of these rights and must be considered a crime unacceptable for the whole international community.

The promotion and protection of human rights has been and continues to be one of the UN Secretary-General’s priorities. In fact, in his remarks to the press after being elected for a second term last week, he referred specifically to having challenging calls with national leaders about human rights abuses. The Secretary-General said that “it isn't always easy, but straight talk about the tough issues can make a real difference.”

This is why the efforts of the United Nations in this field are so commendable. Here in Geneva, the world’s human rights capital, and across the globe, the United Nations family works together with Governments to help them promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms. In this work, “straight talk on tough issues”, such as torture, is essential. And it is not just words alone. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture are good examples of this. Through financial support to non-governmental organizations, countless services are provided – psychological, medical, legal and social, just to name a few – to victims of torture and their families. Services that are very much needed to help rebuild the lives of people that have been deprived of their liberty and basic human rights.

Dear Colleagues:
As we reflect on this exhibit, let us reaffirm the strong commitment of the United Nations to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Let us also reaffirm the inalienable nature of all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Thank you very much.