Swiss OSCE chairpersonship presents roadmap for the prevention and eradication of torture

Bern, 06.10.2026 — In its role as chair of the OSCE for 2026, Switzerland today is presenting a roadmap at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference, setting out how torture can be prevented more effectively, how ill-treatment can be consistently prosecuted, and how victims can be better protected.

All 57 OSCE participating states have repeatedly reaffirmed their commitment to the absolute prohibition of torture. Nevertheless, cases of torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment continue to be documented, even within the OSCE area.

The roadmap drawn up by Switzerland as part of its 2026 term as chair of the OSCE addresses this gap between commitment and implementation. It will be presented today at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. The roadmap does not create new norms, but rather brings together international standards, legal obligations, political commitments and best practice in an action-oriented reference document.

It comprises 18 action points, ranging from arrest and detention through to interrogations, the investigation of allegations of torture and redress for those affected. These include the following:

Through this roadmap, Switzerland aims to demonstrate how torture and other forms of ill-treatment can be prevented, those responsible held to account, and victims better supported.