Architects of change | TV Program | Rebuilding with Our Own Hands
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Karen TSE

Issue / Human Rights

Since ancient times, Human rights have been defined, more or less explicitly, as a set of concepts that give every human being certain inalienable universal rights, including the right not to be subjected to inhuman or degrading punishment or torture. These are implicit rules that are necessary for the moral development of a society, and they are often part of written legal codes. Unfortunately the justice systems of many countries around the world still respect few or no human rights, leading to unspeakable abuse.

In China, Cambodia and India, torture is considered the most economical and efficient method of interrogation. People confess to crimes they did not commit to avoid physical abuse, often without even knowing what they have been accused of doing. They have no access to legal services for their defense and languish in prison indefinitely, unable to communicate with family and friends. In these circumstances, obtaining legal assistance is difficult. The few lawyers who try are often condemned with their client or become victims of intimidation.