Background note

This is an updated edition of the Manual on the Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Istanbul Protocol). The Istanbul Protocol sets out international standards on how effective legal and medico-legal investigations into allegations of torture or ill-treatment should be conducted. The Istanbul Protocol was developed by 75 experts in law, health and human rights from 40 organizations in 15 countries. It was officially endorsed by the former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson, on 9 August 1999 and included in the Professional Training Series of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in 2001 and later updated in 2004. The Istanbul Protocol contains a series of “Istanbul Principles”, which articulate minimum standards for State adherence to ensure the effective investigation and documentation of torture and ill-treatment, which are further elaborated in the manual. The Istanbul Principles were promoted in resolutions of the General Assembly and the former Commission on Human Rights in 20002 and States were called upon to disseminate the Principles widely and use them in efforts to combat torture.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Gender Equality

Reduced Inequalities

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions