SUMMARY The mechanism of regular visits to places of detention is considered to be one of the most effective measures of preventing torture and other forms of ill-treatment of persons deprived of their liberty. The mechanism complements the judicial system ensured by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. It is of great concern that in 2018, the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture identified cases of what can be described as torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This proves that the NMPT visits are strongly needed and should be intensified. The NMPT welcomes the information that its numerous recommendations, issued as a result of its visits, have been taken into account by the managers of the individual facilities. The implementation of the Mechanism’s recommendations increases public trust to the system of such institutions, and constitutes a tangible proof of the parties’ cooperation in the spirit of dialogue and mutual understanding. The National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture is still facing a number of challenges. In order to fulfil its basic function of preventing torture, it would have to ensure regular visits to all places of detention, of which there are over 3,000 in Poland. The NMPT also undertakes numerous educational and advisory activities aimed at increasing the awareness of the society. However, the fullscope exercise of its powers set out in Article 19 of the OPCAT is not possible without sufficient funding allocated by the state. In conclusion, in view of the activities carried out in 2018 by the Commissioner for Human Rights as the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture one should hope that the relevant authorities of the Republic of Poland see the need to support this additional function undertaken by the Commissioner. The provision of sufficient funding is an obligation of each State Party to the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Report of the Commissioner for Human Rights on the activities of the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture in Poland in 2018 67