November 5, 2008

The Middle East Council of Churches Diakonia and Social Justice Unit organized a training workshop on "Torture Prevention in Detention Centers," which was held in Beirut from 14 -16 October, 2008.

The workshop focused on the Implementation of Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel (OPCAT) in Lebanon and the establishment of National Preventive Mechanisms. "The Prevention of Torture in Detention Centers" training workshop was run in collaboration with the National Bar Association for Human Rights Institute, together with experts from Association for the Prevention of Torture – APT, Geneva and concerned actors in Lebanon.

The workshop was designed to provide NGOs, CSO and concerned organizations with the knowledge, skills and processes to effectively monitor detention centers and investigate allegations of torture. The program included an overview of the international human rights standards relating to the prevention of torture, as well as practical training in preparing for and undertaking visits to detention centers and interviewing detainees.

In addition, the program helped participants assess their capacity to fulfill the role of a National Preventive Mechanism and the extent to which they are able to comply with the standards set out in the OPCA, in Human or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

The opening addresses were delivered by MECC General Secretary Mr. Guirgis Saleh, Diakonia and Social Justice Director Ms. Seta Hadeshian, and several other representatives of human rights associations, internal security, general security and OHCHR. Experts from the European Commission on Prevention of Torture and Association for the Prevention of Torture were invited. Several eminent and expert speakers from Lebanon were invited to the Workshop who presented papers and talks about the issue of discussion. For more information contact: meccls@cyberia.net.lb.

Middle East Council of Churches