The role of the pathologist in human rights abuses

The objective and unbiased statement is much valued in international work a gainst human rights abuses. Pathologists play an increasingly important rol e. In this article, this role is illustrated by examples and the internatio nal set of rules is described. It is emphasised that under no circumstances should physicians assist in procedures, such as torture, which can weaken a human being. There is ongoing research into the sequelae of torture, both by gross and microscopic examination and in the living and dead victims.