STARTTS: Uniting Forces Against Torture

STARTTS commemorated the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, which is globally recognised each year on 26 June with a significant event at NSW Parliament. The day included a series of activities designed to empower diaspora communities and raise awareness about the fight against torture.

Workshop on Empowering Diaspora Communities to Address Torture

The first activity was a workshop titled “Empowering Diaspora Communities to Address Torture”.

This workshop, organised in collaboration with the Diplomacy Training Program (DTP), focused on providing participants with crucial knowledge about the definition of torture, the UN Convention Against Torture, the mechanisms for implementing this convention, and the obligations of state signatories. Practical examples for addressing this serious issue were also discussed.

The workshop was designed to encourage interaction and collaborative learning, facilitating dialogue and active participation of attendees.

Main Event: Voices Against Torture

The day culminated with the main event in NSW Parliament’s theatrette, titled “Voices Against Torture: A Call for Global Justice and Human Rights.”

The program included a series of powerful speeches and testimonies that highlighted the importance of the fight against torture and the support for its survivors.

Among the notable speakers were Jorge Aroche, CEO of STARTTS; Michael do Rozario, Chair of the DTP Board; and William Maley, Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University, who delivered the keynote address.

Powerful testimonies from survivors, Mubashar Hasan (Bangladesh) and Juan Aburto (Chile), provided a human and moving perspective on the realities of trauma and resilience. Additionally, topics of advocacy and support for diaspora communities were discussed, as well as the role of STARTTS in supporting survivors of torture.

This event was not only a platform for education and awareness but also a space to strengthen community networks and advocate for a future free from torture.

With thanks to our speakers and panel members for their contributions on such an important topic.