Citation


The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing. (Albert Einstein)

Facts and figures

Torture was used in ancient times and must still be regarded as a global phenomenon which concerns all of humanity.

  • Individuals are tortured and mistreated by governments and authorities in 114 countries in the world.
  • In recent years, people in 80 countries have died following torture (source: Amnesty International Switzerland, 2008).

In 2008, the AFK outpatient clinics in Berne, Lausanne, Geneva and Zurich provided treatment and support for 1,000 patients during approx. 9,000 consultations. Most of those involved still come from Turkey, followed by the former Yugoslavia, the Near East and the Middle East.