Joined by a shared vision that our nation’s fight against terrorism must reflect our character and values as Americans, a coalition of religious leaders of many faiths, former military commanders, and foreign and security policy experts launched the nationwide Campaign to Ban Torture. The Campaign called on the President to issue an Executive Order that unequivocally rejects torture and cruelty.

United behind six core principles of humane treatment that reflect deeply cherished American values, nationally respected faith, military, foreign and security policy leaders endorsed the Declaration of Principles for a Presidential Executive Order on Prisoner Treatment, Torture and Cruelty, which provided a clear blueprint for action. The campaign urged the President to embrace these six principles:

The “Golden Rule.” Do not employ any interrogation methods that would be unacceptable if used against Americans.

One national standard. Adopt one national standard for treatment of prisoners.

The rule of law. Acknowledge all prisoners to our courts or the International Red Cross. Allow prisoners to prove their innocence through a fair and just process.

Duty to protect. Do not transfer any person to countries that use torture.

Checks and balances. Allow Congress and the courts access to information necessary to provide oversight of our detention and interrogation policies.

Clarity and accountability. Hold accountable all U.S. officials who authorize, implement, or fail in their duty to prevent the use of torture.

The Campaign to Ban Torture was created by CVT and:

The National Religious Campaign against Torture, comprised of over 200 religious groups, is committed to ending U.S.-sponsored torture and cruelty.

Evangelicals for Human Rights mobilizes the evangelical community to stand up for human rights.

Read the complete Declaration of Principles for a Presidential Executive Order on Prisoner Treatment, Torture and Cruelty