What is Bastinado Torture Method

Bastinado, also known as falaka or foot whipping, is a type of torture method that involves the beating or striking of the soles of a person's feet with a stick or a whip. The name "bastinado" is derived from the Spanish word "bastón," which means "cane" or "stick." This method has been used historically in various cultures as a form of punishment, coercion, or interrogation.

During the bastinado torture, the victim is typically restrained, lying on their back with their feet elevated. The torturer then strikes the soles of the feet repeatedly with a stick, cane, or whip. This can cause extreme pain, swelling, bruising, and even permanent damage to the feet. In some cases, the torturer may also pour salt or other substances on the feet to intensify the pain.

The bastinado torture method is widely considered to be cruel, inhumane, and a violation of human rights. It has been condemned by various international organizations, including the United Nations, as a form of torture that should be prohibited under international law.

The origins of the bastinado torture method are unclear, as it has been used in various cultures throughout history. However, it is believed to have been a common form of punishment in ancient civilizations, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In these societies, it was often used as a disciplinary measure for slaves or prisoners.

The practice was also used in medieval Europe, where it was known as "foot whipping" or "whipping with the boot." It was often used as a punishment for soldiers who committed minor offenses, as well as for criminals and heretics. During the Spanish Inquisition, bastinado was used to extract confessions from people accused of heresy.

In the Middle East, bastinado has been used for centuries as a form of punishment and torture. It was commonly used in the Ottoman Empire to punish slaves and criminals, and it remains a common practice in some countries today.

Despite its widespread use throughout history, the bastinado torture method is now widely considered to be a cruel and inhumane practice that violates human rights. It is prohibited under international law, and countries that still practice it are often criticized by human rights organizations.
The bastinado torture method has been used in various countries and cultures throughout history. Although it is now considered to be a violation of human rights and prohibited by international law, it may still be practiced in some parts of the world, particularly in countries where human rights abuses are more common. Here are a few examples of places where bastinado torture has been known to occur:

Middle East: Bastinado has been used for centuries in many countries in the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. It has been used as a form of punishment for various crimes, including adultery, drug use, and political dissent.

North Africa: In some North African countries, such as Algeria and Morocco, bastinado has been used as a punishment for criminal offenses and as a means of extracting confessions from suspects.

Southeast Asia: Bastinado has been used in some Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, as a form of corporal punishment for criminal offenses.

Historical Europe: The bastinado torture method was also used in medieval Europe, particularly during the Spanish Inquisition, where it was used to extract confessions from people accused of heresy.

It is important to note that the use of bastinado as a torture method is illegal and widely condemned by human rights organizations. Any practice of bastinado should be reported to the appropriate authorities to ensure that it is stopped and the individuals responsible for it are held accountable for their actions.