Failure to allow full UN prison inspections risks Australia’s international standing, experts say

Australia’s international human rights reputation is under threat after New South Wales and Queensland refused UN access to some facilities, experts say. Photograph: Murray Mccloskey/AAP

Australia’s human rights reputation is in jeopardy after a United Nations anti-torture subcommittee suspended its visit when it was denied access to jails in New South Wales, inpatient units in Queensland and faced other issues in gathering information.

According to the delegation head, Aisha Shujune Muhammad, there had been a “clear breach” by Australia of its obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (Opcat) and the team had been “obstructed”.