The denial of access to food and water is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of abuse which occurs in around 15% of the testimonies. This practice involves withholding basic necessities, such as food and clean drinking water, from people held in detention centers or whilst being held by border authorities. Although it is also used as a means of humiliation, the medical consequences can be dire, potentially leading to dehydration, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, and exacerbating existing health conditions. In extreme cases, it can result in death.
“We even offered to pay for our food if they could buy some for us and they shouted, “Fuck you!”. We only managed to drink the tap water in the room.”
– Respondent in Bihać
This form of abuse is a blatant violation of fundamental human rights and international humanitarian standards. It contravenes the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), particularly Article 3, which prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading treatment, and Article 2, which protects the right to life. It also breaches the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, as well as the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), particularly Articles 11 and 12, which pertain to the right to an adequate standard of living, including adequate food and water, and the right to standards of physical and mental health.
“if they are not going to give us water, they won’t give us asylum”
– Respondent in Bihać
Testimonies like this one from Bihać highlight the use of food and water deprivation as a coercive tool. The denial of basic necessities is employed not just to punish, but to control and manipulate individuals, often to force compliance or deter migration. This practice is a clear reflection of the broader strategy of using inhumane treatment in Europe’s border regime, rather than providing the protection and assistance mandated by international law.
The refusal to provide food and water to individuals in custody underscores a profound disregard for human dignity and the right to life. It transforms what should be a fundamental duty of care into a weapon of control and intimidation.