Information
Russia has formally withdrawn from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture, an international treaty designed to protect the rights of people in detention and allow independent monitors to visit prisons and detention centres. President Vladimir Putin signed the law confirming the exit, which follows repeated criticism from global organisations, including the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, over alleged human rights abuses by Russian authorities during the country’s military campaign in Ukraine.
The Russian Foreign Ministry argued that leaving the convention would not negatively affect its citizens and insisted the country remains committed to upholding international human rights standards. However, two United Nations special rapporteurs warned that Russia’s withdrawal is alarming, suggesting it could hide worsening conditions and potential abuses in Russian prisons and detention facilities.
Source: Reuters, AP, AFP
So What
There is substantial evidence indicating that torture and executions have been carried out on Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs), so it is not surprising that Russia is seeking to withdraw from this type of treaty. While it is highly unlikely that this move will lead to significant changes, it does expose Russia to increased criticism, which they likely disregard. It is possible that the United States may use this situation as a justification to take further actions against Russia; however, the specifics of those actions remain unclear, apart from continuing efforts to pressure countries to cease purchasing gas.
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