What right does the ICCPR assert regarding treatment of detainees?

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) asserts the right to humane treatment and privacy for detainees, emphasizing the fundamental dignity and rights of individuals who are in custody. Article 10 of the ICCPR specifically mandates that all persons deprived of their liberty must be treated with humanity and respect for the inherent dignity of the human person. This includes prohibitions against torture, cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment, thus ensuring that detainees are not subjected to conditions that violate their basic human rights.

The emphasis on humane treatment indicates that states are required to provide conditions of detention that respect human dignity, including adequate food, sanitation, and health care, and to ensure that detainees are not subjected to any form of violence or abuse. Furthermore, while the right to privacy is not specifically enumerated in relation to detainees, it is generally understood to encompass the respect for the personal space and dignity of individuals regardless of their status. Therefore, the assertion regarding humane treatment and privacy recognizes both the immediate welfare and the broader respect for the rights of individuals in detention.

In contrast, options that mention affordable legal counsel, free healthcare, or political participation rights do not directly reflect the core tenet of humane treatment as outlined in the ICCPR