Occupied El Aaiún, June 26, 2025 (SPS) – The Sahrawi Organization for Human Rights Defenders in Western Sahara (CODESA) has condemned the continued impunity for those involved in and responsible for torturing Sahrawi civilians. The organization called for the establishment of an international mechanism to investigate torture methods used in Moroccan occupation police centers, which have resulted in deaths and permanent disabilities.
In a statement marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, observed annually on June 26, CODESA affirmed that "Moroccan occupation forces persist in committing further crimes against humanity and grave violations against human rights defenders, particularly targeting those participating in demonstrations and protests demanding the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination."
The Sahrawi organization, which recently obtained permanent membership in the International Organization Against Torture, noted that it has received numerous complaints and testimonies from Sahrawi human rights defenders and civilians since its founding in 2002. These accounts confirm that they have been subjected to torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by Moroccan occupation forces in both secret and public detention and torture facilities.
Most of these complaints—the organization added—reveal that the victims have suffered multiple violations, leading to severe health deterioration among abductees and detainees.
CODESA held the Moroccan occupation fully responsible for the torture and mistreatment endured by Sahrawi human rights defenders, prisoners, and civilians. It insisted on accountability and the prosecution of those involved in torture, as well as those who incite or issue orders for its practice.
The organization also urged the United Nations, international institutions, and the International Organization Against Torture to take immediate and serious action to implement concrete measures that prohibit torture, put an end to it and to political detention, and secure the release of Sahrawi political prisoners held in various Moroccan prisons.
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