Five Techniques

The term five techniques refers to certain interrogation practices adopted by the Northern Ireland and British governments during Operation Demetrius in the early 1970s. These methods were adopted by the Royal Ulster Constabulary with training and advice regarding their use coming from senior intelligence officials in the United Kingdom Government.

The five techniques were wall-standing, hooding, subjection to noise, deprivation of sleep, and deprivation of food and drink. In 1978, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) trial "Ireland v. the United Kingdom" ruled that the five techniques "did not occasion suffering of the particular intensity and cruelty implied by the word torture ... amounted to a practice of inhuman and degrading treatment", in breach of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Read more about Five Techniques:  Parker Report, European Commission of Human Rights Inquiries and Findings, European Court of Human Rights Trial Ireland V. The United Kingdom

Famous quotes containing the word techniques:

    It is easy to lose confidence in our natural ability to raise children. The true techniques for raising children are simple: Be with them, play with them, talk to them. You are not squandering their time no matter what the latest child development books say about “purposeful play” and “cognitive learning skills.”
    Neil Kurshan (20th century)