DIGNITY - Danish Institute Against Torture is a
self-governing institution independent of party politics. In
Denmark, DIGNITY treats refugees who have survived torture and
it undertakes research in torture and torture sequelae. By doing
so, DIGNITY has gained specialised knowledge and experience on the
basis of which the interventions of DIGNITY's partners in the
South are developed and targeted.
DIGNITY exposes and documents torture on a health
professional basis. The clinical diagnoses and treatment methods
are based on systematic examination of the torture survivors and
research into torture and organised violence. The experiences are
used in DIGNITY's education and advocacy in order to
contribute to the global effort to abolish torture.
DIGNITY's international project work is carried out in
co-operation with local organisations in connection with projects
aiming at diminishing the after effects of torture or preventing
the use of torture and organised violence in the future. Treatment,
prevention and education of local health professionals are main
parts of the projects. DIGNITY's personnel work as consultants
on the projects. The aim is to exchange and pass on knowledge and
expertise. DIGNITY works in South Africa, Sierra Leone, Gaza,
Philippines, Sri Lanka, India, Honduras and Guatemala.
Besides the extensive co-operation with partner organisations
around the world, DIGNITY has contacts in a widely ramified
network of Danish and other European organisations working with
health, human rights, refugees and development aid. The aim is to
fight torture and protect human rights by means of continuous
exchange of experiences and specific projects. DIGNITY is a
self-governing institution that is dependent on economic support
from a number of contributors, the main contributor being the
Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foundations, grants and private
persons also support DIGNITY's work.