International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
June 26
About International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is a United Nations observance held each year on 26 June. It stands in solidarity with the hundreds of thousands of people who have suffered torture, honours survivors, and renews the global call for the total eradication of torture in all its forms.
What is the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture?
The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is a day designated by the United Nations to support and pay tribute to victims and survivors of torture around the world. It is a call to action for UN member states, civil society, and individuals to unite against a practice that is absolutely prohibited under international law, and to ensure that survivors receive the support and rehabilitation they need. It is observed internationally.
When is the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture?
The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture falls on Friday, 26 June 2026. The date is fixed, so the day is observed on 26 June every year.
Why the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture Matters
Torture is one of the gravest violations of human rights and human dignity, yet it continues in many parts of the world today. The prohibition of torture is absolute under international law, meaning it can never be justified under any circumstances. The day matters because it keeps attention on this ongoing reality, supports the organisations that help survivors rebuild their lives, and reminds governments of their obligation to prevent torture and hold perpetrators to account. For survivors, recognition and access to rehabilitation can be a vital part of recovery.
How to Get Involved in the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
There are many ways to mark the day and stand with survivors:
- Learn about the issue – Read about the prohibition of torture under international law and the work being done to end it.
- Support survivor organisations – Donate to or volunteer with charities and rehabilitation centres that help victims of torture recover.
- Raise awareness – Share accurate information and survivor stories to keep the issue visible.
- Back the UN Voluntary Fund – Learn about the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, which funds assistance for survivors and their families.
- Advocate for human rights – Support campaigns calling on governments to prevent torture and uphold their legal obligations.
- Listen to survivors – Centre the voices and experiences of those who have lived through torture.
- Stand against impunity – Support efforts to bring those responsible for torture to justice.
History of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
The day grew out of decades of international effort to outlaw torture. The United Nations established the Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture in 1981 to fund organisations assisting survivors and their families. In 1984 the General Assembly adopted the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the Convention came into force on 26 June 1987.
On 12 December 1997, by resolution 52/149, the General Assembly proclaimed 26 June the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, with the goal of the total eradication of torture. The date carries a double significance. As well as marking the day the Convention against Torture came into effect in 1987, it also recalls 26 June 1945, when the United Nations Charter was signed, the first international instrument obliging members to respect and promote human rights. The first observances were held in 1998.
Noteworthy Facts About the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
- The day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1997 and first observed in 1998.
- 26 June marks the date the Convention against Torture came into force in 1987.
- The same date recalls the signing of the United Nations Charter on 26 June 1945.
- The UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture was established in 1981.
- The prohibition of torture is absolute under international law and cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture?
It is a United Nations day held on 26 June to support survivors of torture and renew the global commitment to eradicating torture everywhere.
When is the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture in 2026?
It falls on Friday, 26 June 2026, and is observed on 26 June every year.
Why is the day held on 26 June?
The date marks the day the UN Convention against Torture came into force in 1987, and also recalls the signing of the United Nations Charter on 26 June 1945.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #SupportSurvivors and #EndTorture on social media. The more people stand together against torture, the stronger the call for its complete eradication.
Related Awareness Days
- World Refugee Day – A day supporting people forced to flee, many of whom have survived persecution and violence.
- International Widows Day – Another June human rights observance focused on a vulnerable group.
- International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression – A day highlighting the protection of children affected by violence.
Links
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