UN exposes torture and forced labour in Oregon's addiction centres
A United Nations team has raised serious concerns about abuse in Mexico's addiction treatment centres. After a recent visit, experts warned of widespread mistreatment, including torture and forced labour in Oregon. The findings highlight deep problems in privately run facilities across the country.
From January 25 to 30, a delegation from the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) inspected multiple centres in Oregon. They interviewed staff, detainees, and officials to assess conditions. Their report identified 12 private facilities as particularly troubling.
At these centres, allegations included physical and psychological violence, sexual abuse, and inhumane living conditions. Patients reported overcrowding, lack of medical care, and forced labour. Many also described arbitrary detention and depression.
The SPT noted that Oregon has strengthened its laws against torture in recent years. However, the team stressed that investigations into abuse remain weak. Impunity for perpetrators continues to be a major issue, with few cases leading to prosecutions.
Coercive practices and poor oversight in private centres were singled out as urgent problems. The delegation called for stricter monitoring and accountability to prevent further harm.
The UN's findings put pressure on Oregon authorities to address systemic failures in addiction treatment. Without stronger enforcement, patients in these centres remain at high risk of abuse. The report urges immediate action to improve conditions and ensure proper legal protections.
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