CAT - Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1984. The Convention entered into force on 26 June 1987. Belgium ratified the CAT on 25 June 1999.

The Convention requires Member States to take effective measures to prevent torture and prohibits Member States from sending people to countries where there are grounds for believing they will be tortured (non-refoulement principle). The Committee against Torture monitors compliance with the Convention.

States Parties to the CAT are assessed in an evaluation cycle:

1. State report + alternative reports from civil society
   Member States that are parties to the CAT must submit a report to the Committee against Torture every four years. This report must explain the measures the state is taking to fulfil its obligations under the CAT. In addition, civil society may submit alternative reports.
2. Concluding observations of the Committee against Torture
   On the basis of these reports, the Committee against Torture issues its concluding observations. These are recommendations designed to guide the State concerned in the implementation of the CAT.

Further information: UN Treaty Body Database