Medical Complicity in Torture at Guantánamo Bay
Author Information
Author(s): Virginia Barbour, Jocalyn Clark, Susan Jones, Melissa Norton, Emma Veitch
Primary Institution: Physicians for Human Rights
Hypothesis
The publication of new evidence of the complicity of medical personnel in torture at Guantánamo Bay should bolster calls for further investigation.
Conclusion
Medical personnel at Guantánamo Bay neglected and concealed evidence of intentional harm to detainees.
Supporting Evidence
- The study documents specific features of torture alleged by the detainees.
- Seven of the nine detainees showed symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Some physical injuries consistent with torture were documented but not investigated.
Takeaway
Doctors at Guantánamo Bay didn't help people who were hurt and even hid what happened to them.
Methodology
The authors analyzed medical records, client affidavits, attorney-client notes, and legal declarations for evidence of torture.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the authors' affiliations with Physicians for Human Rights.
Limitations
The full extent of medical complicity in torture practices is unknown without a thorough investigation.
Participant Demographics
Nine detainees at Guantánamo Bay who alleged torture and ill treatment.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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