From the described situation, which is based on the data we collected by acting in accordance with the Ombudsman's Act and the ANPM, several conclusion may be made regarding the respect of the rights of persons deprived of their liberty in the Republic of Croatia. Despite the fact that in 2013 no treatment was identified that would constitute torture, as the most severe form of violation of Article 3 of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, other violations of the rights of persons deprived of their liberty that could constitute inhuman or degrading treatment were identified. One of the most frequent causes for violation or restriction of the rights of persons deprived of their liberty is definitely the accommodation conditions, which are still, despite the observed declining trend, characterised by overcrowding and inability to ensure compliance with legal and international standards. The efficient supervision of the quality of health care is yet to be carried out. With regard to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty, one of the key shortcomings and causes of violations of the rights is certainly unequal treatment. Although the reasons for unequal treatment are multiple, our opinion is that they primarily arise from specific shortcomings in the legal framework, restrictive interpretation or inconsistent application of regulations, and the accommodation conditions. The level of respect of human rights of persons deprived of their liberty is directly affected by the level of legal protection and the efficiency of legal instruments, which are both insufficiently effective. Cooperation with the state authorities in 2013 was good, but we would like to point out the significant improvement of cooperation with the Central Office of the Prison System Directorate. Replies from the Ministry of Health are in some cases received only after sending rush notes. As good cooperation is one of the prerequisites for successful performance of NPM activities and protection of the rights of persons deprived of their liberty, we consider it is necessary to further strengthen the dialogue with relevant state authorities and state administration bodies. In conclusion, the current situation regarding the respect of the rights of persons deprived of their liberty is not alarming, but there is still plenty of room for improvement. We are equally aware of the state's severe financial situation, but we are again emphasizing that the lack of funds may not be used to justify violations of human rights. Therefore, having in mind the information collected by performing activities in accordance with the Ombudsman's Act and the EPSA, we make the following recommendations: RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. To the Government of the Republic of Croatia, to fulfil its obligations from the Constitutional Court decisions of 17 March 2009 and 3 November 2010 in the shortest possible period;