TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction..................................................................................................... 3
2. Delays in the investigation and prosecution of torture cases.................... 5
2.1. Delays and impunity: Nature, causes, consequences .......................................................5
Country practice........................................................................................................................... 5
2.2. International standards: prompt investigations and the right to an effective remedy........ 15
2.2.1. Rationale for prompt investigations and expeditious prosecutions .......................... 15
2.2.2. International standards: Prompt and effective investigation of torture allegations. 16
2.3. Effective prosecution and punishment of those responsible for torture............................23
2.4. The absence of effective investigations, prosecutions and punishment as a form of
torture or ill-treatment in its own right..................................................................................... 24
2.5. Tackling delays in torture cases: Ensuring prompt and effective investigations and
prosecutions .......................................................................................................................... 26
2.5.1. Bringing a case before an international human rights treaty body............................ 26
2.5.2. States’ responses to comply with obligations............................................................. 29
3. Delays in the resolution of reparation claims ............................................ 32
3.1. Prolonged court proceedings............................................................................................ 32
3.2. Administrative Proceedings/Proceedings before National Human Rights
Institutions.................................................................................................................................. 37
4. Recommendations ....................................................................................... 37
Table of Authorities .......................................................................................... 43
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