CAT/OP/12
(e)
Evaluate the experience gained while monitoring places of deprivation of
liberty during the pandemic, with a view to strengthening their methods of work;
(f)
Enhance cooperation with other national preventive mechanisms and regional
networks, in order to benefit from each other’s experiences and share good practices;
(g)
Develop responses for exercising their mandate in all types of emergencies and
have contingency plans ready for visiting under such conditions.
V. Conclusions
17.
The Subcommittee remains supportive of States parties and national preventive
mechanisms during the pandemic. As indicated in the Subcommittee’s previous advice, it is
not possible to predict how long the pandemic will last, or what the “new normal” in the postpandemic world will be. However, the Subcommittee reaffirms the importance of preventive
activities in places of deprivation of liberty while stressing the need to respect the “do no
harm” principle. The Subcommittee will continue its work together with the national
preventive mechanisms to avoid any protection gap for persons deprived of liberty.
18.
The preventive system created by the Optional Protocol will continue to adapt its
working methods for the benefit of persons deprived of liberty and of personnel of places of
detention. The effective prevention of torture and ill-treatment require that the Subcommittee,
States parties and national preventive mechanisms continue to respond to the current
challenges by increasing cooperation and finding ways to fully implement the provisions of
the Optional Protocol.
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