On 15 October 2026, Lizzie Winfrey, representing the Sovereign Order of Malta, addressed the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, following a briefing by Mr. Claude Heller. She emphasised the importance of accountability, humanitarian access and sustained support for survivors.
The Order expressed concern over the continued prevalence of torture and ill-treatment in both armed conflict and peacetime, highlighting the risks faced by prisoners of war, civilian detainees, victims of human trafficking and modern slavery, and other vulnerable populations. Lizzie Winfrey stressed that such practices are incompatible with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and underscored the need to ensure accountability for violations, regardless of where they occur or who is responsible.
Drawing on the Order’s humanitarian experience, she highlighted the importance of granting humanitarian organisations safe and unimpeded access to detainees, strengthening mechanisms to identify and assist victims, and addressing the conditions that place vulnerable populations at heightened risk. She also outlined the Order’s work in Sudan, where support for health facilities, community infrastructure and vulnerable households helps displaced communities access safety and assistance.
She further highlighted the Order’s continued support for people affected by the war in Ukraine, including psychosocial services that have reached more than 60,000 beneficiaries. These efforts reflect the importance of placing survivors and affected communities at the centre of humanitarian responses, ensuring access to recovery, rehabilitation and meaningful reintegration.
Reaffirming the Sovereign Order of Malta’s commitment to the dignity of every human being, Lizzie Winfrey called on the international community to strengthen protection, uphold accountability and ensure that survivors receive the sustained care and support needed to rebuild their lives in dignity and security.
