Monaco appears before UN anti-torture committee in Geneva

Monaco has presented its latest report on the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Torture during a two-day session at the UN headquarters in Geneva.

The review, which took place on 8th and 9th April, was led by Samuel Vuelta Simon, Secretary of State for Justice and Director of Judicial Services, who outlined Monaco’s legal framework and reaffirmed the independence of its judiciary. The presentation forms part of a periodic process in which states party to the convention must demonstrate progress in preventing torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

In his remarks, Mr Vuelta Simon highlighted reforms made since Monaco’s last appearance before the Committee in 2016. These included efforts to strengthen legal and institutional structures designed to better protect individuals from violence and abuse. The delegation also pointed to improvements in detention conditions, the handling of prisoner transfers, and enhanced legal aid provisions.

The committee and the Monegasque representatives engaged in what was described as a frank and constructive dialogue. Topics under discussion ranged from fundamental human rights guarantees to the practical enforcement of international standards in Monaco’s justice system.

The Monegasque delegation included officials from several key institutions: the Directorate of Public Security, the Directorate of Legal Affairs, the Department of External Relations and Cooperation, the Directorate of Judicial Services, and Monaco’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva.

Monaco ratified the Convention against Torture in 1991. Following the review, the UN Committee is expected to issue its concluding observations and recommendations, which will be subject to follow-up procedures.

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Photo source: Gavin Li, Unsplash