European Parliament adopted on 17th June a resolution calling for better regulation in export of torture tools. [:]

The failure of EU Member to implement the Regulation 1236/2005 that prohibits trade in goods which could be used for death penalty, torture or other inhuman treatment was discussed in the Subcommittee on Human Rights on 18th March. Chairwoman Hautala called then for review of the current practices of the Member States and better monitoring by the Commission. She underlined that also the list of prohibited tools must be updated.

“There are serious concerns that some member states’ export-licensing authorities do not assess the risk that exported items may be used for torture. It has also come to light allegations that trade in prohibited tools has continued despite the prohibition”, said Ms Hautala.

In the resolution the European Parliament states that any trade in equipment such as spiked batons, thumb-cuffs and any body-worn electric-shock weapon should be banned in the EU area. Crucially important is the requirement that the Member States should regularly report on their export licences issued for instruments that could be used for torture or other ill-treatment.