EMN Sweden and the Swedish Red Cross hosted a conference on the identification of victims of torture and ill-treatment

Identifying victims of torture and ill- treatment in the asylum process is a significant and complex issue requiring broad forms of cooperation at an early stage. A degree of flexibility, changing migration policy and knowledge-building initiatives in all parts of the asylum process were just some of the topics discussed at length at a conference organised by EMN Sweden together with the Swedish Red Cross.

Broad forms of early-stage cooperation

On 23 January 2025, EMN Sweden and the Swedish Red Cross organised the conference “Identification of victims of torture and/or ill-treatment in the asylum process” in Malmö. The conference was launched with a recently published inform, produced by EMN in partnership with the Red Cross EU Office and the Swedish Red Cross. In brief, the report provides insights into how EMN Member and Observer Countries work on issues relating to torture and inhuman treatment.

The conference brought together representatives from the public sector, local government, the judiciary, healthcare, academia, civil society and non-governmental organisations. By highlighting different perspectives and providing a forum for the exchange of experiences, the dissemination of knowledge and discussion, the conference contributed to a deeper understanding of the complex challenges of the asylum process.

"While there are favourable structures in place, certain major challenges must still be tackled.”, said Hugo Rickberg from EMN Sweden in his opening remarks.

Effects of trauma may appear much later

Salah Haghgo opened the conference with a moving account of his own story as a torture survivor. He emphasised that recovery is a long process, that trauma has a profound impact and that the effects often emerge much later – sometimes completely unexpectedly. Salah spoke at length about the individuals behind the statistics, human rights, perpetrators and victims of torture and inhuman treatment.

The lack of expertise in working with people whose trauma can be triggered long after the event was a recurring theme at the conference. The Swedish Red Cross Treatment Centre in Malmö is now receiving many people who fled the war in the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s. Women are particularly affected and are experiencing the effects of their trauma 30 years later, often in connection with other major life events.

Expert panel: Knowledge-building initiatives are needed in all parts of the asylum process

In the morning, Johan Ekstedt, a researcher at the Department of Global Political Studies at Malmö University, moderated a panel discussion with Anette Carnemalm, Head of Operations at the Swedish Red Cross Treatment Centre in Malmö; Amanda Johnson, public legal aid lawyer at the Guide law firm; and Naida Pilav, expert at the Swedish Migration Agency. The participants agreed that challenges persist stemming largely from a lack of knowledge regarding the identification of victims of torture and from insufficiently clear responsibilities in cooperation between various actors.

All participants noted that increased responsibility now lies with the individual applicant, meaning that legal and ethical considerations, as well as documentation, become crucial. According to Naida Pilav, the Swedish Migration Agency is conducting ongoing efforts to improve knowledge to ensure a legally sound assessment.

Migration policy in times of change

In Europe, Sweden is highlighted as one of the countries with more adapted and tailored guidance on identifying victims of torture and inhuman treatment. Despite significant progress in this area, a number of challenges remain in the investigation of torture-related injuries. Shortcomings in cooperation, fear and mistrust of the authorities among asylum seekers, political priorities and a changed role for public defenders have had a significant impact on opportunities to identify victims of torture or inhuman treatment and, not least, on the entire asylum process.

In addition to this, issues were raised regarding time pressure, a lack of knowledge and competence among interpreters, as well as cultural and language barriers. Also emphasised, was the need for greater knowledge in disseminating information regarding entitlement to healthcare and employment among those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A project recently completed in Region Skåne (Documentation, identification, and knowledge about torture) has been cited as a good example of ongoing efforts.

“As people, we may hold different views on torture and grief, and our understanding of the consequences may also differ. The applicants we meet feel shame – although we talk about PTSD and they talk about imbalance, in reality we are talking about the same thing.”, says Anette Carnemalm from the Swedish Red Cross.

Establishing a coordination centre to promote the exchange of experiences nationally and internationally

During the afternoon, issues were discussed in smaller groups. While challenges and risks were both in focus, so were opportunities, particularly in connection with the upcoming implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Participants also discussed the measures, processes and training needs required to identify victims of torture and inhuman treatment.

Participants agreed that continued dialogue is needed on the complex issues facing the EU, and that the exchange of experiences with other countries, broad collaboration and coordination centres for knowledge-building initiatives in the field of trauma are crucial. During the discussions, several good examples from other countries were highlighted. Among other things, the strong commitment from civil society in France and Belgium was emphasised, as well as Denmark’s work against torture within the framework of a development organisationExternal link, opens in new window. External link, opens in new window. with many years of experience in the field.

The is a need to broaden perspectives on:

• exposed and vulnerable groups
• working continuously to build security
• improving and adapting processes and methodologies in line with developments and needs.

All the photos are taken by Adelina Dankova, unless otherwise stated.