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VII. Conclusion

The rights discussed in this report, including the inherent right to life, freedom from torture, freedom of expression and of assembly, and the right to a trial within a reasonable period, are important foundations for any democratic society. And yet, over 20 years after the end of Guinea’s brutal dictatorship under Sékou Touré, and over a decade after Guinea’s transition to multiparty democracy, brutality on the part of Guinean security forces, and consequent violations of these rights, have not been stopped.

Putting an end to the violations described in this report requires that the Guinean government take immediate measures to end the impunity that emboldens perpetrators and sustains abuses. To this end, the Guinean government must show that it is concerned with protecting the rights of its citizens by immediately investigating the violations outlined in this report and holding those responsible to account.

At the same time, to encourage the development of a climate of accountability, key actors with a stake in Guinea’s future such as Guinea’s biggest bilateral and multilateral donors—including the United States, France, and the European Union—should support local nongovernmental organizations to help develop their ability to monitor and document violations by security forces and conduct advocacy with respect to these violations, including advocacy on behalf of prisoners, at a national level.