“We Can Arrest Anyone We Want”
Widespread Human Rights Violations Under El Salvador’s “State of Emergency”

The prohibition against torture is a bedrock principle of international law. Torture, as well as cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, is banned at all times, in all places, including in times of war. No national emergency, however dire, ever justifies its use. No one may ever be returned to a place where they would face torture. Many countries and armed groups nonetheless have engaged in torture. Human Rights Watch documents the use of torture all over the world. We are committed to pressing government authorities to act to prevent torture, as well as bringing those who engage in torture to justice. We also work to ensure that victims of torture obtain redress, including an enforceable right to fair and adequate compensation, and full rehabilitation.
November 1, 2022
Widespread Human Rights Violations Under El Salvador’s “State of Emergency”
Survivors Describe Beatings, Electric Shocks, Waterboarding
Six Cases Highlight Alleged Torture, Junta’s Failure to Investigate
Pro-junta armed groups that have claimed responsibility for of extrajudicial killings have faced no consequences in Myanmar.
Call for End to Death Penalty, Release of Those Unjustly Detained
Human rights situation in Kazakhstan
Those standing up to the war report horrific instances of abuse at the hands of the authorities
Survivors Describe Beatings, Electric Shocks, Waterboarding
Proposes Detention Without Judicial Review at Military-Run Centers
Half-Million Prosecuted, Imprisoned During Crackdown
Six Cases Highlight Alleged Torture, Junta’s Failure to Investigate