How is progress measured?
This global torture prevention progress map is designed to spotlight achievements and drive further action, rather than dwell on setbacks. Based on available data, this tool visualises key indicators (referred to in our visuals as "positive actions") of progress over 40 years and beyond, which are based on recognized legal measures that support torture prevention at the national level. Eight positive actions (indicators) have been identified to measure and visualize progress in the prevention of torture around the world.
Why use these indicators for progress measurement?
These positive actions, which are indicators, are recognised as important legal measures relating to the prohibition of torture, both internationally and nationally. They constitute the main legal foundations for effective torture prevention, on which all other work to combat torture should be based. They are also clear and objective indicators, for which information is accessible and can be easily collected and then visualised. For each positive action, the APT provides data about the status for all countries where available – 'yes/no', and in one case (criminalisation of torture), 'partially' to capture partial alignment with international standards and show that at least a step has been taken towards fully achieving this. Countries marked as "partially" are included in the count of those recorded as "yes."
The categories and the positive actions linked to them are:
International Law and Standards
Ratification of the Convention against Torture (UNCAT): This signals a legal commitment to prohibit and prevent torture without exception.
Submission of Initial Report to the Committee against Torture: This reflects compliance with treaty obligations and transparency in implementation.
Ratification of the Optional Protocol to the CAT (OPCAT): This highlights the commitment to establishing independent monitoring mechanisms to prevent torture.
National Law
- Prohibition of torture in the constitution: This indicates that the highest legal authority places an explicit ban on torture.
- Criminalisation of torture under domestic law: This ensures that perpetrators can be prosecuted per treaty obligations.
Oversight System
- Designation of a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM): This confirms that an independent national body is mandated by law to monitor places of deprivation of liberty.
- Operationalisation of the NPM: This shows the status of the institution (NPM) that can implement its functions under the OPCAT.
- National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) in full compliance with the Paris Principles: This indicates that national-level human rights bodies meet the UN Paris Principles of independence and effectiveness.
Desktop Review
Recognizing the importance of tracking progress in torture prevention efforts, APT undertook a desktop review of each positive action (indicator) across all countries. The methodology employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from international, regional, and national databases, as well as from previous surveys conducted by APT in collaboration with National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs).
These data were systematically cleaned, categorized, and prepared for analysis. The findings were then visualized to provide stakeholders with a clear snapshot of national progress and to facilitate meaningful comparisons across countries or regions. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between efforts made and measurable impact. Comparisons can be made across regions, countries, positive actions, and over time, using the filter buttons. The review was carried out by APT staff, with support from some legal research professionals.
We also consulted legal experts, existing research publications, international, regional, and national websites as part of our review process (see Data Source page for more information). The data will be updated annually. For the update, we will be collaborating with various institutions at different levels. We also provide an opportunity for anyone with relevant information to contribute to the update of the data here.
Color matrix
We use colour codes to categorize the positive actions as well as the number of these that have been implemented nationally towards
preventing torture.
**The implementation of all indicators by a country doesn’t translate to the absence of torture, but that positive actions (key legal measures) have been implemented to prevent torture and protect persons.
| Colour Labels | Positive actions |
|---|---|
| GREEN (Light) | 0-2 have been implemented |
| GREEN | 3-5 have been implemented |
| GREEN (dark) | 6-8 have been implemented |
| BLUE | International Law and Standards |
| YELLOW | National Law |
| ORANGE | Oversight System |
Collaboration
Motivated to produce a useful tool to show progress, drive change, and provide support to torture prevention efforts, APT successfully developed this project with the support of various partners, including Loterie Romande, Fonds Mécénat des SIG, and Viz for Social Good. The visualizations were developed through a process by Viz for Social Good, from which three data analysts—Gabrielle Schroeder (project lead), Kristiadi Uisan (project lead), and Bryony Miles (project lead) — were selected and utilized for this project.
For the data update, APT will also rely on its collaboration with different partners, individuals, and relevant stakeholders.