Bahrain and Nigeria both marked the United Nations (UN) International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on June 26, 2024, reaffirming their commitment to upholding human rights and ending torture [8735a6e8]. Mohammed Khalid Al Hazza, Acting Attorney-General and Chief of the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) in Bahrain, emphasized Bahrain's commitment to supporting human rights and preserving dignity. Al Hazza highlighted the right not to be subjected to torture, recognized under international and national law, and the commitment of the international community to combat torture and other cruel treatment. Bahrain has established several agencies, including the SIU, to safeguard and preserve human rights in the criminal justice system. The SIU is an independent judicial investigative body that investigates allegations related to torture or ill-treatment, determines criminal responsibility, and ensures victims have access to their rights and can receive justice according to international standards [8735a6e8].
In Nigeria, Mrs. Beatrice Jeddy-Agba, the Solicitor-General of the Federation, called on stakeholders to speak with one voice against all forms of torture during the 2024 Commemoration of the International Day Against Victims of Torture. The event, organized by the Federal Ministry of Justice in conjunction with the National Human Rights Commission, emphasized the theme 'Voices Against Torture: A Call for Global Justice and Human Rights'. Jeddy-Agba acknowledged the efforts of stakeholders in ensuring Nigeria complies with the UN Convention Against Torture and stressed the need for a collective collaboration to prevent torture in Nigeria. Dr. Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, called for the strengthening of national efforts and mechanisms to prevent torture and ensure comprehensive protection for all persons in Nigeria [8c9bcc2f].
Meanwhile, in Trinidad and Tobago, there has been a recent focus on domestic violence and sexual assault. Justice Lisa Ramsumair-Hinds sent a signal of the court's support for legal defense against domestic violence, aligning the country's laws with the UN's global movement to criminalize marital rape. Justice Kathy-Ann Waterman-Latchoo ordered the identity of a young man convicted of sexual assault to be lodged with the National Sex Offenders Registry. Dr. Gabrielle Hosein, a prominent advocate, believes there needs to be a greater emphasis on reporting, prosecution, conviction, counseling, and options for restorative justice. The National Clinical and Policy Guidelines on Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence were introduced in August 2022 [ef5c2578].