CAT: Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, 1984 (entered into force 1987)

This Convention defines torture and prohibits its use at all times and without exception, even during war or a public emergency. Countries that have ratified the Convention must make torture a crime wherever they have jurisdiction and ensure prompt and impartial investigation of any allegations of torture. Victims of torture must be able to obtain fair and adequate compensation. Further, countries must prevent other acts of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Unfortunately, the definition of torture in the Convention is limited to acts that are in some way officially condoned. This has presented an obstacle to many forms of violence against women qualifying as torture for the purposes of the CAT. The Convention establishes the Committee against Torture to monitor compliance and, in certain circumstances, to hear complaints from other countries that have ratified the CAT, and from individuals. The Committee is also empowered to undertake its own inquiry into allegations of torture in a country that has ratified the Convention.