Kyiv residents take shelter from shelling in the subway. Ukraine: Torture committed by Russian authorities amounts to crimes against humanity International law
Russian authorities are using torture that amounts to a crime against humanity, the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine said in its latest report to the UN General Assembly.
The Commission previously found that Russian authorities’ use of torture amounted to a war crime. Additional cases of torture against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war confirmed its use in all Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine and pre-trial detention facilities in the Russian Federation that the Commission examined.
Systematic nature of torture
In its previous reports, the Commission concluded that the practice of torture by the Russian authorities was widespread. Common patterns indicate a systematic nature of these actions.
The Commission identified additional common elements concerning the transfer of abusive practices from detention facilities in the Russian Federation to similar facilities in Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine. Former detainees consistently described the same brutal methods aimed at intimidation, domination, humiliation, coercion and punishment.
The evidence further demonstrates that the Russian authorities deployed members of separate security services and agencies from the Russian Federation in various detention facilities located in the occupied territories of Ukraine. These members acted in a coordinated manner and with clearly defined responsibilities in carrying out torture.
Sexual Violence
In addition, sexual violence as a form of torture, primarily against male detainees, was a regular occurrence in detention facilities under the control of the Russian authorities. One of the prisoners said he was shocked in the genitals at least six times with a stun gun.
The victims described physical pain and injuries with long-term or permanent consequences, and also highlighted the serious psychological difficulties they face.
The Commission also found that in places of detention under Russian control there was a general lack or denial of medical care to prisoners who were wounded, ill or in need of treatment following torture. A Ukrainian serviceman told the Commission that after he was seriously wounded in an explosion, his requests for medical care were ignored. Because of the delay in treatment, part of his foot had to be amputated.
Coordinated Policy
Victims and witnesses repeatedly mentioned the involvement of high-ranking correctional officials, as well as orders given to less senior personnel. Many of these officials carried out torture openly, with a clear sense of impunity.
“The evidence we have uncovered confirms that the Russian authorities have acted as part of a coordinated state policy of torture against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, and have thus committed a crime against humanity,” said Commission Chairman Erik Møse.
Attacks on energy infrastructure
The Russian Federation’s sustained and massive attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have resulted in power outages affecting millions of civilians. This has, among other things, severely limited access to health care and education. Victims have reported feelings of stress, anxiety and isolation.
The Commission reiterated the importance of bringing those responsible to justice, both judicially and extra-judicially. Identifying and prosecuting perpetrators is a key step to ending impunity and is integral to ensuring justice for victims.
The Commission continues to investigate attacks using explosive weapons that have harmed civilians and civilian objects on both sides of the front line, including medical and cultural institutions protected under international law.
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