Means of implementing the mandate The Special Rapporteur shall seek and receive information from States Parties to the Charter, individuals, national and international organisations and institutions as well as other relevant bodies on cases or situations which fall within the scope of the mandate described above. In order to discharge his/her mandate effectively the Special Rapporteur should be given all the necessary assistance and co-operation to carry out on-site visits and receive information from individuals who have been deprived of their liberty, their families or representatives, from governmental or non governmental organisations and individuals. The Special Rapporteur shall seek co-operation with States Parties and assurance from the latter that persons, organisations or institutions rendering or providing information to the Special Rapporteur shall not be prejudiced thereby. Duration of the mandate This mandate will last for an initial period of two years which may be renewed by the Commission. 55 Report of the Mission of the Special Rapporteur on Prisons to Ethiopia 15 – 29 March 2004