Ukraine Elected to UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture

Ukraine's First Seat on the UN Torture Prevention Body

Ukrainian candidate Anton Symkovych has been elected to the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) for the 2027-2030 term, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN Andriy Melnik announced on October 1. "Yet another diplomatic victory for Ukraine at the UN," Melnik wrote on social media, congratulating Symkovych on his election. The vote took place during the 11th Meeting of States Parties to the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture (OPCAT).

Competition was fierce: 22 candidates from 21 countries vied for 13 vacant seats. Ukraine secured 60 votes and won in the first round, alongside representatives from Ghana, Chile, Greece, Lebanon, Hungary, Montenegro, Togo, Uruguay, Peru, Latvia, Croatia, and Moldova.

Special Significance Amid Russia's War

Ambassador Melnik stressed that Ukraine's election to the SPT carries particular weight, as thousands of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians illegally held by Russia continue to endure torture and other forms of cruel treatment. The vote also represents international recognition of the professionalism and expertise of Ukrainian human rights specialists.