Psycho-social aspects of torture in Sri Lanka

Abstract

In Sri Lanka the use of physical and psychological methods of torture has become widespread. Many victims do not survive torture, but those who do develop various physical and psychiatric symptoms. Of the psychiatric complications, somatisation, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety are common. However, not only individuals but also their families and community are affected. It is possible to help these individual torture survivors through medical treatment, psychotherapy, traditional healing, relaxation exercises, expressive methods, family support and socio-economic rehabilitation. On a collective level, communities can be strengthened through creating awareness, training of community level workers, cultural rituals, social justice and social development. However, it would be much more effective in the long-term to prevent torture by implementing UN conventions and developing professional and social attitudes against the practice of torture. Unfortunately, in Sri Lanka, conditions conducive to torture have become institutionalized into the very laws of the land, structures of society and mechanisms of governance. The Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and Emergency Regulations (ER) by facilitating prolonged incommunicado detention without charges or trial, in locations and conditions entirely at the discretion of the Security Forces, and by allowing for the disposal of bodies of victims without judicial inquiry, legitimise torture and death in custody. By providing legal sanction, impunity, protection and implicit encouragement for perpetrators of mass human rights abuses, the PTA and ER have led to the establishment of a culture of violence, intimidation and state terror. Thus, in Sri Lanka, if torture is to be effectively prevented, the institutional framework, monitoring mechanisms, impunity and conducive attitudes will have to be changed.