Tackling Torture - by Malcolm D Evans (Paperback)

About the Book

"How big a problem is torture? Are the right things being done to prevent it? Why does the UN appear at times to be so impotent in the face of it? In this vitally important work, Malcolm D. Evans tells the story of torture prevention under international law, setting out what is really happening around the world. Challenging assumptions about torture's root causes, he calls for what is needed to enable us to bring about change. The author draws on over ten years' experience as Chair of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture to give a frank account of the remarkable capacities of this system, what it has achieved in practice, or not been able to achieve - and most importantly, why" -- Back cover.

Book Synopsis

How big a problem is torture? Are the right things being done to prevent it? Why does the UN appear at times to be so impotent in the face of it?

In this vitally important work, Malcolm D. Evans tells the story of torture prevention under international law, setting out what is really happening around the world. Challenging assumptions about torture's root causes, he calls for what is needed to enable us to bring about change.

The author draws on over ten years' experience as Chair of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture to give a frank account of the remarkable capacities of this system, what it has achieved in practice, or not been able to achieve - and most importantly, why.

Review Quotes

"Evans' reflections are authoritative, unique and fascinating, as can only be expected given his experience and erudition--helping to sow the seeds in the minds of those who blindly insist on rigidity and consistency in the orthodox human rights practice against its messy reality." Human Rights Law Review

"Writing eloquently and accessibly, Evans dwells on the readily achievable. This is an essential text for those interested in questions of detention, monitoring and anti-torture." Human Rights Law Review

About the Author

Malcolm D. Evans is Principal of Regent's Park College, Oxford. He was formerly Professor of Public International Law at the University of Bristol and Chair of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture. In 2015, he was appointed KCMG for services to the prevention of torture and the promotion of religious liberty, having previously been awarded the OBE in 2004.