Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Torture Victims

RCT, the Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Torture Victims, is a self-governing institution independent of party politics. In Denmark, RCT treats refugees who have survived torture and it undertakes research in torture and torture sequelae. By doing so, RCT has gained specialised knowledge and experience on the basis of which the interventions of RCT's partners in the South are developed and targeted. RCT 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 RCT's education and advocacy in order to contribute to the global effort to abolish torture. RCT'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. RCT's personnel work as consultants on the projects. The aim is to exchange and pass on knowledge and expertise. RCT 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, RCT 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. RCT 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 RCT's work.