18 Reparation—Civil Claims Against Human Rights Violators

Although states are obligated to respect and ensure human rights, it must be noted that violations occur time and again. Even if administrative or judicial remedies are available to the aggrieved individual, the successful conclusion of a criminal proceeding brought against the body or person responsible for the act or omission complained of may not suffice as reparation for the harm caused. A victim of torture does not recover his/her health simply because the perpetrator has been convicted and sentenced. A person unlawfully imprisoned for a time wishes not only...