Story perspectives

European Ministers Dilute Torture Ban, Permit Expulsions

5/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

European ministers adopted a new interpretation at the Council of Europe's meeting in Moldova on May 15, 2026.
The interpretation makes the ban on torture absolute but allows a relative severity assessment, weakening Article 3 protections.
It permits expulsion of foreign nationals despite Article 8 for security reasons and authorizes cooperation with third-country return hubs.
Secretary General Alain Berset welcomed the declaration, while scholar Veronika Fikfak warned it dilutes protections against torture.

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Story summary

European ministers adopted a new interpretation at the Council of Europe's meeting in Moldova on May 15, 2026.
The interpretation makes the ban on torture absolute but allows a relative severity assessment, weakening Article 3 protections.
It permits expulsion of foreign nationals despite Article 8 for security reasons and authorizes cooperation with third-country return hubs.
Secretary General Alain Berset welcomed the declaration, while scholar Veronika Fikfak warned it dilutes protections against torture.