Report details prison torture in Myanmar
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YANGON - Political prisoners in Myanmar suffered grisly torture experiences and difficulties with rehabilitation after release, according to a report by the Former Political Prisoners Society (FPPS) and the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (
The report was based on their survey conducted nationwide and along the Thai-Myanmar border from January 2014 to July 2015.
The study of 1,621 ex-inmates found the authorities tortured political prisoners systematically and extensively. The report describes deaths during investigation, in jail and labour camps due to insufficient food and water, the lack of health care and torture. Some political prisoners were used as porters in warzones.
Around 67 per cent said they suffered from inhumane treatment while 58 per cent said their human dignity had been violated.
After release there was social discrimination, travel bans, lack of education and job opportunities, financial difficulties, family problems, physical and mental suffering and barriers to joining social organisations.
The report urged the new government to recognise ex-convicts who suffered, offer them rehabilitation, pay compensation and implement laws to guarantee human rights.
