Action by Christians Against Torture
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Action by Christians Against Torture (ACAT) is an international Christian organization dedicated to combating torture and advocating for human rights. Founded in 1974, ACAT operates as a network of national organizations united under the umbrella of the International Federation of Action by Christians for the Abolition of Torture (FIACAT).[1]
ACAT's primary mission is to campaign on behalf of individuals who are subjected to torture, detained in inhumane conditions, sentenced to death, or have been forcibly disappeared, regardless of their origins, political opinions, or religious beliefs.[1] The organization engages in various activities to achieve its goals:
Structure and network
Principles and approach
ACAT's work is grounded in Christian faith and values, but the organization supports individuals of any or no faith.[2] Their approach combines:
1. Christian Ethics: ACAT bases its work on the belief that torturing a human being is an abuse of God's image.[2]
2. Human Rights Framework: The organization draws on both Christian traditions and secular human rights concepts, including the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen[5].
3. Individual Conscience: ACAT emphasizes the importance of individual conscience as a tool of resistance against state-sponsored torture.[3]