As President of the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims and an experienced psychotherapist, Abdel Hamid Afana gave very valuable insights into the consequences of torture for the victims themselves, as well as for their families, and also pointed out that torture even has long-term negative effects on community development. He further explained the different motivations behind torture and the ways how torture victims can best be approached by ICRC delegates visiting prisons. With regard to the International Rehabilitation Council, he emphasized that it takes a holistic approach to torture, which includes not only individual treatment but also work with the community to ensure that the victims will get the necessary support for themselves and their families.

The interview was held on 12 September 2007 by Toni Pfanner, Editor-in-Chief of the International Review of the Red Cross.