Should the Government Release Torture Photography?

June 10, 2009

Seeking Accountability for Torture Photography as Evidence (June 3, 2009)

Five years after the release of the Abu Ghraib photos—images that shocked the world with their graphic depiction of abuse, humiliation, and torture of detainees—the United States debates the release of additional torture photographs.

After a Freedom of Information Act suit, the Department of Justice had been scheduled to release photos on May 28 that are believed to document abuse of detainees by U.S. military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, on May 13, President Barack Obama blocked the release of the photos, citing concerns that the images would “further inflame anti-American opinion” and endanger troops. Meanwhile, public support builds for a nonpartisan commission to investigate and report on cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of detainees held since September 11, 2001.

Above, listen to a recent discussion of these issues and the role of documentary photography in providing accountability for torture and depicting the human stories behind these abuses.

Topics

Documentary Photography, Culture and Art

National Security and Human Rights

Rebuilding and Resilience: 20 Years Since 9/11

A woman standing at the September 11 memorial

On the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Open Society shares reflections from partners on the road traveled since—and the hard work still ahead.

September 10, 2021 | Laleh Ispahani

Voices

No State Accountability for North Carolina Contractor Who Helped CIA Torture

While far too much of the CIA’s activities during the presidency of George W. Bush remains hidden from the public, a new report helps to fill the gap by taking a closer look at North Carolina’s involvement.

December 13, 2018 | Catherine Read

Event Recap

The History of American Islamophobia, from the 19th Century to the Trump Era

Khaled A. Beydoun’s new book charts Islamophobia in the United States and the ways anti-Muslim rhetoric is rooted in the country’s legal system.

October 31, 2018

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