Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT)
The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (SPT) is an international expert body established under OPCAT. It has both operational functions, such as visiting places of detention in States Parties and making recommendations to protect detainees from ill-treatment, and advisory functions, such as providing assistance and training to States Parties and National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs).
The SPT consists of 25 independent and impartial experts from around the world and publishes an annual report on its activities. The SPT conducted its first official visit to the UK in 2019.
The SPT offers guidance to States party to OPCAT and NPMs to support their efforts in implementing the treaty. The UK NPM follows the SPT’s guidance and regularly reports on its activities to the SPT.
NGOs do not submit to the subcommittee.
About the OPCAT
- The OPCAT is a supplementary treaty to the United Nations Convention against Torture (CAT)
- The OPCAT was ratified by the UK in 2003
- OPCAT established the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT)
- The primary aim of the SPT is to prevent torture and ill-treatment by visiting places where people are deprived of their liberty
- OPCAT requires States parties to establish National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs) to monitor places of detention
- The UK established its NPM in 2009
Stages of monitoring states’ obligations under OPCAT
- Country visits by the SPT
- Reports and recommendations by the SPT
- Response by the State party (UK) to SPT recommendations
- Follow-up and implementation of recommendations
