The purpose of this essay is to give the reader an insight in the subject of torture. This is done through both an historical perspective and by showing how torture methods are used today, even though torture is prohibited by law. Many refugees who come to Sweden today have survived torture, and the trauma can cause multiple illnesses related to the tragic memories. In addition to physical damage many also suffer from depression and post traumatic stress, due to the experiences of torture.

Together with the Swedish Red Cross we designed a questionnaire which was sent to politicians and elected officials. In the questionnaire we asked questions concerning knowledge of injuries due to torture and what treatment options these people have in Sweden. Some of the questions are based in the concept of solidarity. The responses from this survey are the basis for analysis and discussion and are linked to our theories of organization and solidarity. The analysis shows that the knowledge is generally good, and the political parties in general have a collective solidarity approach to the care of people who are victims of torture.