Introductory note of the Commissioner for Administration and Protection of Human Rights (Ombudsman) Preventing incidents of ill-treatment, inhuman or degrading treatment or torture constitutes the institutional pillar of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM). The NPM aims, inter alia, to minimise incidents of illtreatment of detainees and to improve the conditions of detention. This Report summarises the activities of the NPM between 2015 and 2017. It aims to encourage debate on matters regarding the fulfilment of the mission of the NPM, and to demonstrate the commitment of the competent authorities in responding to the recommendations made to them for implementing corrective measures. The multi-level activities of the NPM carried out between 2015 and 2017 included visits to detention centres, prisons and care homes for the elderly and the disabled, and activities to inform, educate and raise awareness among non-governmental bodies and state stakeholders. Since its establishment in 2009, the National Preventive Mechanism demonstrates the significant work it has undertaken to strengthen the respect for human dignity in detention. In the light of the experience it has gained, the NPM is ready to address challenges to prevent and safeguard human dignity in a decisive and constructive manner. Maria Stylianou Lottides Commissioner for Administration (Ombudsman) and Protection of Human Rights LEGAL FRAMEWORK Cyprus, adopting Laws 235/90, 35(ΙΙΙ)/90 and 36(ΙΙΙ)/2002, has ratified the United Nations Convention against Torture. 2