The Independent International Commission of Inquiry for Ukraine found torture tests by the Russian authorities against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war in the occupied Ukrainian territories and in Russia.
The wide geographic scope of torture patterns suggests that it is considered acceptable and routine, and that Those who commit it do not fear any punishment for their actions, the commission noted in its most recent report to the Human Rights Council of the UN.
According to the commission’s experts, Russian authorities have used torture in areas of Ukraine under their control.
The commission found additional common elements in the use of torture, such as violent methods in places of detention in Russia, where prisoners from Ukraine are held. It is also observed in several large penal institutions in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
There is also evidence of coordinated involvement of employees of specific Russian services in places of detention where torture is practiced.
Sexual violence
A common feature is the systematic use of sexual violence as a method of torture, mainly against men.
Testimonies from former prisoners who spoke to investigators indicated that the mistreatment they received from prison staff was sometimes They responded to orders from high command Russians.
A civilian victim who was tortured for ten days told the commission that those responsible do everything in silence, so that no one notices what is happening.
Traumas and the need for psychological support
These abuses leave many of the victims with severe trauma and mutilations. Most witnesses highlighted the psychological impact of that experience in them and their families.
Some victims reported difficulties in reintegrating into society and rebuild relationships with loved ones. They also highlighted the need for psychological and social support to overcome trauma.
The commission also documented attacks with explosive weapons against civilian targets in populated areas and investigated assaults that damaged medical facilities, cultural facilities, residential buildings and supermarkets in Ukrainian-controlled areas.
Attacks on energy infrastructure
Experts continue their investigation into the large-scale attacks by the Russian Federation on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, some of which caused Power outages affecting millions of people.
The investigations revealed the impact of these attacks on health and wellness of the population.
Power outages particularly affect the vulnerable groupssuch as older people and people with disabilities.
Power cuts too online education was disruptedharming displaced children and children with disabilities who often rely on distance education.
Accountability
The commission reiterated the importance of identifying those responsible for these abuses, demand accountability and support victims.
Finally, he urged all parties to cooperate and coordinate efforts to achieve these reparations.
The commission is an independent body mandated by the United Nations Human Rights Council to investigate all alleged violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international law in the context of the war in Ukraine.
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