Distinguishing Between Brutality, Torture, Assault and Other Forms of Ill-treatment

Tshepang Edwin Makwati

doi:10.25159/2521-2583/11094

Authors

Tshepang Edwin Makwati University of Botswana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2521-2583/11094

Keywords:

assault, brutality, cruel, inhuman, torture, degrading

Abstract

The distinction between torture on the one hand and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment on the other often raises debates. The blurry line that divides these closely related concepts is further confused by the use of terms such as ‘brutality’. States use this term to mask conduct that often meets the threshold of either torture or other forms of ill-treatment. This article attempts to disentangle these often-confused concepts that make it difficult for oversight bodies to formulate befitting charges against perpetrators. Taking note that it is often not clear how torture is distinguished from other violations of physical or psychological integrity, this article clarifies the difference between torture—as defined in international human rights law – and the common-law offence of assault.

Author Biography

Tshepang Edwin Makwati, University of Botswana

Tshepang Edwin Makwati is a lecturer of law at the University of Botswana, focusing mainly on international human rights law, public international law and constitutional law. He is also a passionate human rights lawyer and the Managing Partner of Makwati TE Law Group, a law firm based in Gaborone, Botswana, which focuses, among other things, on representing victims of human rights violations.

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