DIGNITY: Danish Institute Against Torture DIGNITY

DIGNITY is an independent human rights and development organization. Our vision is a world free of torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment.

Founded in 1982, DIGNITY is one of the world’s first anti-torture NGOs and specialized treatment centres for torture survivors. For 40 years, DIGNITY has been a leading civil society force in the global fight against torture.

DIGNITY is headquartered in Copenhagen and currently employs around 140 staff globally. We have active partnerships with more than 30 local and international NGOs and research institutions around the world.

DIGNITY operates in +20 countries in Africa, Middle East, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central America, where we work in close partnerships with human rights defenders, civil society organizations and, where possible, government authorities.

Acknowledgements

DIGNITY has consultative status under the UN Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC, and is a member of the WHO Alliance for the Prevention of Violence (VPA).

The rehabilitation clinic is recognized by the National Board of Health as a national center specializing in the treatment of severely traumatized refugees.

In 2017, DIGNITY received the Crown Prince Couple’s Social Award for the work to combat torture and rehabilitate torture victims in Denmark and internationally.

Funding

DIGNITY is a self-governing institution, independent of party politics.

DIGNITY’s international work is supported by, among others, the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Commission, the Swedish, Swiss, and Dutch MFAs, and a longer list of foundations, including the Open Society Foundation.

The rehabilitation clinic in Copenhagen is financed through Danish Regions. In addition, DIGNITY’s work is made possible thanks to foundations, scholarships, and support from private individuals.