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United Nations Convention against Torture

What this indicator measures

This UN convention (1984) requires states to prevent and punish torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. This indicator shows whether the country has ratified or signed it.

How to read this?

“State party” means the country has ratified or acceded to the convention and must therefore comply with it.

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202countries with data
2026data year(s)

In brief

United Nations Convention against Torture: 202 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: State party : 171 ; Signed, not ratified : 4 ; Neither party nor signatory : 27.

Why this indicator matters

The Convention against Torture commits states to preventing and punishing torture. Comparing ratifications shows which states have accepted these international obligations.

What makes this indicator vary

Joining a treaty depends on political choices, the reform of domestic laws and the history of relations with international bodies. Some states sign first, then ratify later, or never.

Reading precautions

Ratifying a treaty does not guarantee that it is respected on the ground. A state may also enter reservations on certain articles. The source is collaborative and may lag behind official registers.

United Nations Convention against Torture

State party (171)

Signed, not ratified (4)

Neither party nor signatory (27)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "United Nations Convention against Torture" data come from?

It comes from Wikipédia, « Convention against Torture » (états des ratifications de l’ONU). Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

What is the difference between signing and ratifying?

Signing shows an intention to be bound. Ratifying makes the treaty legally binding on the state. A country that has signed but not ratified is therefore not yet bound by the text.

Does being a state party guarantee the absence of torture?

No. Ratification legally binds the state, but does not prove that the rules are applied. Actual practices are assessed by other sources and monitoring bodies.

Source and update

Source : Wikipédia, « Convention against Torture » (états des ratifications de l’ONU). Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Justice and security