A report of UN Special Rapporteur’s visit of Guantanamo Detention Centre

On 26 June 2023, in a report the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights highlights the conclusion of UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, Fionnuala Ní Aoláin visit to the United States and Guantanamo detention centre. This visit was made up of three parts: the rights of the victims of 9/11 terror attack, the rights of detainees in Guantanamo, and the rights of former detainees. According to her the most important obstacle in reaching justice for the realization of victims’ rights has been the use of torture. Amnesty International secretary general Agnes Callamard regarding this visit has said: “this is the first time that a special rapporteur has been given permission to make such a thorough and technical visit.” She stressed on the closure of the detention centre, US authorities accountability and compensation for those that have been tortured. In this report the more than 21 years indefinite detention of 780 Muslim men and countless cases of human right violations have been reviewed. The special rapporteur has also recognized notable improvements in the detention conditions, but has also expressed concern over the continued detention of 30 men and daily arbitrariness they have to endure, and without exception brings about insecurity and stress for all.
In facing each detainee, the special rapporteur noted the continued and relentless suffering the inmates are suffering as a result of torture and arbitrary detention. The special rapporteur explains that the arbitrary operational procedures in view of the depth and severity of physical and mental injuries of most inmates, how they are detained and solitary confinement cells are completely contrary to human rights. This use shows training shortfalls, lack of healthcare, lack of access to families and arbitrary detention, which will only be clarified through fair trial. She stressed that the combination of these actions and shortfalls has piled up impact on the inmates dignity and fundamental rights, and is tantamount to continued cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, and the closure of this detention centre is still a top priority. In the conclusion of this report the special rapporteur refers to the United States government held accountable with regards to all violations of international law of victims of countering terrorism and victims of terrorism.

https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/06/usa-un-special-rapporteurs-findings-reinforce-urgent-need-to-close-guantanamo-and-provide-redress-for-past-and-present-detainees/