Our Mission

The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture aids survivors to overcome the lasting effects of torture and war. In partnership with the community, the Centre supports survivors in the process of successful integration into Canadian society, works for their protection and integrity, and raises awareness of the continuing effects of torture and war on survivors and their families. The CCVT gives hope after the horror.

About CANADIAN CENTRE FOR VICTIMS OF TORTURE (TORONTO) INC (CCVT)

CCVT is a non-profit, registered charitable organization. Founded in 1977, it was incorporated in 1983. CCVT is the second-oldest centre of its kind in the world.

Torture is not a modern day phenomenon; it has been practiced almost from the beginning of civilization. Torture is now illegal under both national and international law.

There are United Nations agreements dealing specifically with torture. (The United Nations Convention Against Torture came into force on June 26, 1987). Even so, modern day torture is widespread and systematically practiced in two-thirds of

the countries in the world. Torture is used to intimidate, punish and control

a population. It is a form of punishment, a means of coercion and results in the degradation and dehumanization of individuals and the disenfranchisement of the population. It is used to suppress dissent and generally takes place within a

context of tyranny, political violence and repression.