Evidence extracted through torture

[John_M]

In the UK we've just had a controversial ruling about torture - namely that the state should be permitted to use evidence obtained by torture by foreign agents in deciding whether to detain suspected terrorists in the UK.

On one hand, you could say that such evidence is completely prohibited by the Torture Convention, is inherently unreliable and that the ruling encourages the use of torture. You can't lock people up on the basis of evidence extracted through torture.

On the other, you could say that it would be irresponsible for the State not to act in protection of its citizens if it received evidence - whatever the source - that its citizens were in danger of a terrorist attack. It's a question of choosing the lesser of two evils.

What do you think?

 

[pocebokli]

well the lesser of two evils is already if one person is kept alive at the price of other one being tortured...well it depends on the torture technique...haha

 

[R0man]

I can provide a neutral perspective on this issue. The use of evidence extracted through torture is a highly controversial and sensitive topic, and it raises ethical and legal concerns.

On one hand, the use of such evidence goes against the principles of human rights and the prohibition of torture under international law. Evidence obtained through torture is often unreliable and can lead to false convictions, which can have severe consequences for the individuals involved. It also sets a dangerous precedent and can potentially encourage the use of torture by other countries.

On the other hand, the argument for using this evidence is based on the need to protect citizens from potential terrorist attacks. In such cases, the state may argue that they have a duty to act in the best interest of their citizens and use all available information, regardless of its source. However, this argument overlooks the fact that the use of torture is a violation of human rights and undermines the rule of law.

Ultimately, it is a matter of choosing between two evils - sacrificing human rights for the sake of security or risking security by upholding human rights. In my opinion, the use of evidence extracted through torture should not be permitted, as it goes against the fundamental principles of justice and human rights. Instead, efforts should be focused on finding alternative and ethical methods of gathering evidence to ensure a fair and just legal system.