Workshop on UN Anti-Torture Mechanisms

On the eve of International Human Rights Day, the Diplomacy Training Program (DTP) and the Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS), in partnership with the Whitlam Institute at Western Sydney University, hosted a specialised workshop designed to strengthen the capacity of refugee and migrant community leaders to engage with the United Nations Anti-Torture Mechanisms. https://www.un.org/en/observances/human-rights-day

The program, held on campus at Western Sydney University, focused on the work of the UN Committee Against Torture (CAT) and the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT).

The workshop on Anti- Torture Mechanism, commenced at 10:00 am with an Acknowledgment of Country delivered by Joelle Sassine, followed by opening remarks from Professor John Juriansz, Director of the Whitlam Institute; Clare Sidoti, Program and Communications Manager at the Diplomacy Training Program; and Lachlan Murdoch, Deputy CEO of STARTTS.

Workshop on UN Anti-Torture Mechanisms

In the main training session, Mr. Steven Caruana, Detention Monitoring and Torture Prevention Treaty Coordinator, provided a comprehensive overview of how UN anti-torture mechanisms operate both within Australia and internationally. Through two detailed sessions, participants learned practical tools for documenting violations, engaging with UN treaty bodies, and strengthening community advocacy. https://dtp.org.au/training/workshop-on-engaging-with-un-anti-torture-mechanisms/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

The workshop on Anti- Torture Mechanism concluded at 3:00 pm and was widely described by attendees as an insightful, empowering, and highly informative learning experience.

A statement of appreciation was extended to STARTTS, Western Sydney University—particularly the Faculty of Law, Mr Steven Caruana, and the Whitlam Institute for organising such an important initiative aimed at advancing justice and the protection of human rights in Australia and beyond.

The Iranian delegation expressed particular gratitude for the invitation, noting that they will continue working with multicultural communities to help enrich Australia’s culture of compassion, solidarity, and respect for human dignity. https://www.iranliberty.org.au/human-rights-day-77th-anniversary-iran/