Overview of the National Preventive Mechanism this time. In light of this expertise and due to statements of opinion from renowned national and international organisations, the Human Rights Advisory Council formulated recommendations and suggestions on current topics in correctional institutions such as the efforts to effect early release or alternatives to detention, the treatment of risk groups and outdoor exercise. After the rapid fall in cases after the first lockdown, the Council also recommended scaling up the number of on-site visits before the summer. The statements of opinion of the Human Rights Advisory Council are an important contribution to the NPM’s work. Due to the multidisciplinary composition of the Council, it does not only provide additional expertise but also a value-adding perspective. 24