Aware of the severity represented by torture and mistreatment, and in recognition of the urgent need to combat these practices, we are honored to announce the evolution and expansion of the “Defenders” project into a more robust and collaborative platform, the “Unified Registry of Torture and Mistreatment.”
This renewed effort stems from the collaboration between three state institutions and TEDIC: the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Public Defense, and the Torture Prevention Mechanism. These institutions join together with the purpose of combating and eradicating these practices, thus solidifying Paraguay’s commitment in line with international guidelines against torture.
Contextualizing the Problem
Since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, the fight against torture has been imperative. As one of the signatories of the United Nations Convention Against Torture, Paraguay recognizes the gravity of such acts and reaffirms its commitment to eradicating these practices.
Paraguay’s dark past during the Stroessner dictatorship has left deep scars. The existence of the “Terror Files”, which revealed that at least 18,772 people were tortured during that period, testifies to the need to remember and learn from our history.
With the creation in 2011 of the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture (MNP) through Law 4288/11, the country has taken significant steps. But the fight continues. That’s why it’s essential to systematize and register current cases of torture and mistreatment.
A unified registry of torture and mistreatment
The “Unified Registry of Torture and Mistreatment” platform emerges as a comprehensive solution to address this issue. Originally designed as “Defenders” to provide public defenders with a tool to register torture complaints, this project now includes a broader component with the participation of three state entities.
This will allow not only a more extensive registry but also coordinated action and a more effective response. The platform features a mobile app for case registration and a public web platform for visualization. Through these means, it aims to make data transparent and provide valuable information for various institutions and the public.
In an era where information is power, we are committed to protecting the integrity and privacy of the collected data. The platform has been designed and developed following international standards in privacy and cybersecurity.
By emphasizing collaboration between various state entities, this new step represents a reinforced commitment to confront and eradicate the practices of torture and mistreatment in Paraguay. With the “Unified Registry of Torture and Mistreatment,” we aspire to consolidate a future where the human rights of every individual are fully protected and respected.
As part of the platform’s update, we participated in its launch by the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture on October 25th in the MNP meeting room. This event featured the presence of prominent representatives from various institutions, including the Ministry of Public Defense, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, National Police, Paraguayan Human Rights Coordinator (CODEHUPY), the Coordinator for the Rights of Children and Adolescents (CDIA), and TEDIC.
On our YouTube channel, you can learn how this innovative tool works and its impact on human rights defense.
Additionally, more information about the “Defenders” project is available at this link.
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