On this United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT) stands in unwavering solidarity with survivors of torture around the world.
Torture remains one of the most egregious violations of human rights. It destroys bodies, fractures minds and tears at the fabric of families and communities. Though unequivocally prohibited under international law – under all circumstances – it continues in prisons, in conflict zones, in places of displacement, and in silence.
This year’s commemoration comes amid a surge in global violence and humanitarian crises. FASSTT is alarmed that more and more communities around the world are being shattered by war and conflict – leaving a trail of mass trauma, grief and profound human suffering.
We acknowledge the immense suffering caused by conflicts around the world – including in Sudan, Ukraine, Myanmar, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, among others. In every context, FASSTT upholds the right of people to safety, healing, justice and peace.
FASSTT expresses grave concern over the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and the wider Middle East. Tens of thousands of civilians – especially children – have been killed, injured or displaced. Homes, hospitals, schools and water systems have been destroyed, leaving millions without access to the basic conditions necessary for survival.
Of urgent concern, humanitarian access remains severely restricted. According to UNICEF, over 50,000 children have reportedly been killed or injured in Gaza since October 2023, and more than 71,000 children are at severe risk of acute malnutrition.
FASSTT notes the International Court of Justice’s finding that allegations of Israel breaching its obligations under the Genocide Convention are plausible, and its order for Israel to take preventive measures. The Court has also called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages taken by Hamas.
FASSTT is further deeply concerned by the escalating regional conflict involving Israel, the USA, Iran and others, which threatens wider destabilisation, further civilian harm and a deepening of humanitarian need. Civilians must never bear the cost of political or military escalation.
We join the international call for:
- The protection of all civilians.
- An immediate and sustained ceasefire in all conflicts.
- Unimpeded humanitarian access.
- Full adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law.
- The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and unlawfully detained persons, especially children.
- The absolute prohibition of torture, without exception.
In Australia, refugee and diaspora communities are feeling the emotional toll of these crises. Many are reliving past trauma while fearing for the safety of loved ones overseas. These experiences are deeply distressing and risk retraumatising those already impacted by violence and displacement.
FASSTT unequivocally condemns all forms of Islamophobia, antisemitism, racism and hate speech and calls for community responses rooted in compassion, justice and the protection of human rights.
We urge the Australian Government to provide permanent protection pathways for Palestinians and others on temporary visas who cannot safely return home.
FASSTT agencies work every day with people who have survived torture and trauma and sought safety in Australia. Recovery is possible – but it takes time, trust and access to culturally safe and specialist trauma-focused care.
We acknowledge the ongoing role of the Australian Government in supporting torture survivors through the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (PASTT), now in its 30th year. This enduring national investment reflects Australia’s commitment to international humanitarian obligations and to ensuring that people who have fled war, conflict and persecution are given the chance to rebuild their lives through healing.
Torture and other human rights violations are not only crimes against individuals – they are crimes against humanity.
In standing with survivors, we stand for justice, for peace and for the fundamental right of every person to live free from violence and fear.
For more information about the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, visit https://www.un.org/en/observances/torture-victims-day
The Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT) is a national network of eight specialist organisations, located in every state and territory across Australia. FASSTT agencies deliver trauma-focused, culturally responsive support to individuals who have experienced torture or other human rights violations – often in the context of war, persecution or forced displacement.
Most of the people supported by FASSTT have arrived in Australia as refugees, humanitarian entrants or asylum seekers. FASSTT agencies help survivors in their journey of healing and recovery, and in rebuilding their lives in safety and dignity.
Individuals seeking assistance can contact their local FASSTT Agency or call the Witness to War Telephone Line on 1800 845 198 – a free, multilingual telephone service for people affected by overseas conflicts.
