PUTTING AN END TO “ROUTINE TORTURE” DEATHS SHOULD NOT BE AN “INEVITABLE CONSEQUENCE” In October 2016, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka provided a detailed submission to the Committee against Torture that highlighted the “routine” practice of torture across the island nation, regardless of the nature of the suspected offence for which the person is arrested. After coming to power in May 2016, the President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, launched a “war on drugs” that has resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings. “For instance, those arrested on suspicion of robbery, possession of drugs, assault, treasure hunting and family disputes have been subjected to torture,” the Commission said. The report described “the prevailing culture of impunity” as a contributing factor to the routine use of torture in interrogations and investigations. The Committee drew on this information when it provided recommendations – or “concluding observations” – to the Government of Sri Lanka to improve protections for detainees, especially during the interrogation phase, and to ensure judicial oversight following their arrest. The Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines has been the subject of consistent attacks by the President and other senior officials for its investigation into deaths linked to the crackdown. In May 2017, President Duterte threatened to “behead” human rights advocates who criticised the country’s record. “Words matter,” the Commission said in a statement. “We are disturbed that such statements may be taken as incitement to violence and create a climate of impunity.” “In principle, we support [this administration’s] vision of improving the lives of our people,” the Commission continued, “but a number of human rights violations, including deaths, should not be its inevitable consequence.” The APF held a High Level Dialogue with the Commission’s leadership team in February 2017 to discuss its role to monitor and investigate these serious human rights violations, as well as the challenges it faces in doing so. ANNUAL REPORT 2016–17 19