The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) was formally adopted in 1984 before it entered into force in 1987. CAT is a legally binding treaty which, together with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Geneva Convention, contains provisions on the prohibition of torture and mistreatment. The Convention requires its parties to take active steps to implement the provisions and prevent torture on their territory. Next to regulating the prevention, persecution and punishment of torture and other mistreatments, the Convention also forbids for people to be transported to states where they will be subject to torture. The Committee Against Torture supervises the implementation of the Convention. State parties are required to submit their initial report one year after their accession and every four years thereafter.

CAT / UN