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After making it through live-changing experiences, those who survived torture and other forms of violence are also facing discrimination during the rehabilitation. On the other hand, the financial resources for rehabilitation are not sufficient.

We discussed this with Ludmila Popovici, Deputy Director of “Memoria” Rehabilitation Center for Victims of Torture. We are referring to two major problems. First – the discrimination of victims, as they are not treated fairly by state institutions and other stakeholders, and second – lack of money for rehabilitation. As a solution for preventing the discrimination of victims of torture and other forms of violence, we, the whole society, need to turn our face towards them. I understand that torture or violence is not a pleasant topic, it is painful and could lead to reluctance, making many people elegantly turning their backs on victims and minding their own business. We should mobilize everyone, we should understand that these persons holding the status of victim, which we call survivors of torture and other forms of violence, are members of our society. They are among us. They are among our colleagues, among our neighbours, etc.

As long as these persons are ignored by the Government, donors, and citizens, they will feel marginalized, discriminated against and ignored, forgotten by the society and their life continues to be a nightmare.

Availability of financial resources for rehabilitation is a continuous and major problem, that we have been dealing with for 15 years of our activity, because we had budget deficits every year. Every year we had to fight for our survival as an institution, as a center, and we have continuously made efforts to raise money for rehabilitation.

In order to be able to provide rehabilitation services and the necessary support to victims, we have to join our efforts with those of our colleagues, citizens, Government institutions, donors, with everyone who wants the life of these people to return to normality, to live in a calm family environment, and enjoy peace within their families and their souls. We must understand how important it is to support such persons and contribute as much as we can.

A media subject developed during the anti-torture week that marks the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture –  June 26. Documentation and Investigation of Cases of Torture and Rehabilitation of Victims: Deficiencies and Solutions – a Promo-LEX initiative.