CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE
19 OF THE CONVENTION
Conclusions and recommendations of the Committee against Torture
A. Denmark
33. The Committee considered the second periodic report of Denmark
(CAT/C/17/Add.13) at its 228th and 229th meetings, on 14 and 16 November
1995 (CAT/C/SR.228, 229 and 233/Add.1), and has adopted the following
conclusions and recommendations:
1. Introduction
34. The Committee thanks the Government of Denmark for its report.
It also listened with interest to the oral information and clarifications
provided by the Danish representatives. The Committee wishes to thank
the delegation for its replies and for the open-minded spirit and
cooperation in which the dialogue was conducted.
2. Positive aspects
35. The Committee appreciates the determination of Denmark to guarantee
respect for and protection of human rights, being one of the first
States to accede without reservations to most of the international
and regional instruments for the protection of such rights. Thus Denmark
is a forefront State in the development of human rights standards.
36. The Committee notes with satisfaction that Denmark is playing
a special role in the full rehabilitation of torture victims, and
provides resources for that purpose through the Rehabilitation Centre
for Torture Victims.
37. The Committee is also pleased to note the unique commitment of
the authorities in Denmark in the field of education and information
for the prevention of torture.
3. Subjects of concern
38. The Committee is nevertheless concerned about the allegations
received from some non-governmental organizations concerning one case
of apparent torture, and some cases of ill-treatment, and the alleged
use of leglocks by police forces, as well as solitary confinement
applied in some places of detention.
4. Recommendations
39. The Committee recommends that the State party give high priority
consideration to the incorporation of the provisions of the Convention
into its domestic law.
40. The Committee also recommends the enactment of a law in Denmark
specifically on the crime of torture in conformity with article 1
of the Convention, so that all the elements of the definition of that
offence contained in the said article are fully covered.
41. Furthermore, it is the view of the Committee that Denmark should
take strong measures to bring to an end ill-treatment, which was reported
in some police stations, to ensure that allegations in this regard
are speedily and properly investigated, and that those who may be
found guilty of acts of ill-treatment are prosecuted.
