Press Release: EU curbs trade of torture equipment

For the first time the European Union is banning trade in goods that have no use other than for capital punishment or torture. Strict controls will also be imposed on multiple-use goods which could be used to inflict torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. These measures are part of a groundbreaking trade Regulation proposed by the European Commission and agreed by the 25 Member States. The new rules reflect the EU's unequivocal rejection of torture and the death penalty.