Amplifying the voice of survivors in the campaign to abolish torture

The EU advocates for the eradication of torture and stands with victims of torture worldwide as part of its broader commitment to the defence of human rights. On 26 June 2026, on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the EU adds its voice to the global call to eradicate torture, provide redress for survivors and to end impunity for the perpetrators.

Together with partners worldwide, the EU has supported more than 12 000 survivors over the past two years, helping them pursue justice and rebuild their lives as they seek rehabilitation and redress.

Portraits of resilience

This year, the European External Action Service (EEAS) is hosting an exhibition about the victims of torture called Portraits of Resilience by UK photographer Jonathan Banks in its Brussels HQ. The exhibits in the Portraits of Resilience collection seeks to restore survivors’ dignity by emphasising their humanity.

Instead of using straight documentary portraits of the survivors of torture who are his subjects, Banks asks the people he photographs to choose images with personal significance - a joyful moment, a memory or a symbol for example.

Restoring agency

He then projects these images directly on to the body of the torture survivor and photographs the result. While the set-up protects their identity, the photographers lens gives survivors the means to express their humanity by restoring their agency through the creative act.

One such co-creator is Amy who suffered torture while touring a country in Latin America in 2012. She was gang-raped in a remote area of Columbia but following her ordeal, subsequently was mistreated systemically by officials from the police, civil and medical administrations which compounded her trauma.

“My case has been marred by delays and revictimisation by the authorities,” she said. Now, over a decade later, Amy is still seeking justice. Her experience highlights the necessity of timely access to justice and accountability.

• Follow the link to learn more about Amy’s story of torture

Voice of survivors

Portraits of Resilience amplifies the voice of survivors in the campaign to abolish torture. To view more images and learn more about their stories of survival, follow the link to the website of photographer Jonathan Banks.

• Torture is indefensible and a grave violation of human dignity. Accountability and reparations are essential to restore survivors’ dignity and agency.
• On the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the EU reaffirms its commitment to survivors, working with partners like the United Against Torture Consortium to support justice, reparations, and rehabilitation.
• The EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime targets perpetrators, while the EU’s Anti-Torture Regulation—a world first—bans trade in torture tools.
• The recent Charter of Rights of Victims and Survivors of Torture is a landmark, survivor-led document guiding support efforts. Follow the link to learn more about the Survivor’s Charter from the UN.
•  Every government must act to support victims and eradicate this illegal, inhumane practice. All states should ratify and fully implement the UN Convention against Torture and its Optional Protocol.

Europe as a reliable partner

Follow the link to learn more about Europe's Offer and discover stories reflecting the core principle of EU foreign policy: lasting stability is built through reliable partnerships.

European Union, 2026