A conference to raise awareness on torture and the Istanbul Protocol

Authors

  • Daniel J.N. Weishut Clinical Psychologist, Senior Lecturer, Department of Behavioral Sciences & School of Social Work, Jerusalem Multidisciplinary College, Israel. Correspondence to: danielwe@jmc.ac.il
  • Tal Steiner Attorney, LLM in International Human Rights Law, Director of Public Committee Against Torture in Israel
  • Bettina Steiner-Birmanns Senior Neurologist, Department of Neurology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/torture.v35i2.153409

Keywords:

torture, awareness, human rights education, Israel, Istanbul Protocol, descriptive research

Abstract

Introduction: The “Aspects of Trauma and Torture” conference, a collaborative effort between the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel and Physicians for Human Rights Israel, aimed to elevate awareness and deepen comprehension of torture and its multifaceted psychological, social, and legal ramifications. Centred around the launch of the Hebrew translation of the updated Istanbul Protocol, the conference addressed the diverse populations in Israel vulnerable to torture, including Israeli citizens, African asylum seekers, and Palestinian detainees.

Methods: Utilising a series of interdisciplinary lectures and interactive sessions, participants explored the profound implications of trauma and torture on individuals and communities, with a particular emphasis on the critical role of mental health, medical, and legal professionals in prevention and advocacy. This study investigated how participation in a conference focusing on trauma and torture influences attendees’ levels of awareness and motivation to engage in actions against torture. Forty attendees completed an online questionnaire that incorporated both open-ended and closed questions regarding the conference’s impact.

Results: The findings revealed significant increases in attendees’ familiarity with the subject matter, a strengthened sense of professional collegiality, and an enhanced commitment to combating torture. Notable variations were observed between physical and virtual participants, as well as between those with an active role at the conference and passive attendees, and between individuals in psychosocial professions and those in other disciplines.

Discussion: The findings highlight the pivotal role of conferences as catalysts for human rights education and advocacy, while also identifying areas for improvement in accessibility and engagement within hybrid formats. These insights contribute to the broader discourse on effective strategies for addressing torture and fostering systemic change. Furthermore, the article proffers recommendations for future conferences.

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Published

2025-10-15

How to Cite

Weishut, D. J., Steiner, T., & Steiner-Birmanns, B. (2025). A conference to raise awareness on torture and the Istanbul Protocol. Torture Journal, 35(2-3), 174–182. https://doi.org/10.7146/torture.v35i2.153409

Issue

Vol. 35 No. 2-3 (2025): Torture Journal: Journal on Rehabilitation of Torture Victims and Prevention of Torture

Section

SPECIAL SECTION ON ISRAEL & OCCUPIED PALESTINE

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