- There is a real crisis of leadership in Iraq -- with
double standards and double speak on human rights, Amnesty International
said today.
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- "The latest evidence of torture and ill-treatment
emerging from Abu Ghraib prison will exacerbate an already fragile situation.
The prison was notorious under Saddam Hussein -- it should not be allowed
to become so again. Iraq has lived under the shadow of torture for far
too long. The Coalition leadership must send a clear signal that torture
will not be tolerated under any circumstances and that the Iraqi people
can now live free of such brutal and degrading practices," Amnesty
International said.
-
- "There must be a fully independent, impartial and
public investigation into all allegations of torture. Nothing less will
suffice. If Iraq is to have a sustainable and peaceful future, human rights
must be a central component of the way forward. The message must be sent
loud and clear that those who abuse human rights will be held accountable.
-
- "Our extensive research in Iraq suggests that this
is not an isolated incident. It is not enough for the USA to react only
once images have hit the television screens".
-
- Amnesty International has received frequent reports of
torture or other ill-treatment by Coalition Forces during the past year.
Detainees have reported being routinely subjected to cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment during arrest and detention. Many have told Amnesty
International that they were tortured and ill-treated by US and UK troops
during interrogation. Methods often reported include prolonged sleep deprivation;
beatings; prolonged restraint in painful positions, sometimes combined
with exposure to loud music; prolonged hooding; and exposure to bright
lights. Virtually none of the allegations of torture or ill-treatment has
been adequately investigated by the authorities.
-
- Amnesty International is calling for investigations into
alleged abuses by Coalition Forces to be conducted by a body that is competent,
impartial and independent, and seen to be so, and that any findings of
such investigations be made public. In addition reparation, including compensation,
must be paid to the victims or to their families.
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- http://news.amnesty.org/mav/index/ENGMDE140172004
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