Torture under Assad in Syria: Our response

As an organisation that has supported over 150 Syrian torture survivors in the past decade, we will continue to provide therapy to survivors and work to ensure that the torture ban is upheld. Read our response to the fall of Assad's regime and the use of torture.

Ann Salter, Head of Clinical Services North West at Freedom from Torture, said:

“Torture was a hallmark of Assad’s regime. At Freedom from Torture, we support many Syrian survivors, and the stories I’ve heard about the terrible torture they’ve endured are unimaginable. I've listened to countless testimonies of severe physical and psychological abuse – including of young people and children – as well as details of detention and inhumane living conditions.

“In our therapy rooms up and down the country, our therapists bear witness to the agony that so many have suffered. Recent developments and detailed reports will likely be re-triggering for many of the Syrian people we work with. Those we support who’ve endured similar experiences to what is now being publicised, repeatedly show signs of severe stress, including PTSD and anxiety, long after their physical injuries have been treated.

“It’s vital that people understand that the impact of the torture that Syrian survivors have endured continues to cast a long and painful shadow over their lives, even many years after. Following decades of brutality, we must now see justice and accountability for these crimes.”