E/CN.4/1999/63/Add.3 page 13 34. The detaining authorities must assess a compelling need to detain that is based on the personal history of each asylum seeker. 35. An absolute maximum duration for the detention of asylum seekers should be specified in national law. 36. Any review body should be independent from the detaining authorities. 37. Unaccompanied minors should never be detained. 38. Specialized non-governmental organizations, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and legal representatives should have access to all places of detention, including transit zones at international ports and airports. 39. All staff should receive training related to the special situation and needs of asylum seekers in detention. 40. National authorities should provide detailed information on relevant policy, practice and statistics in order to ensure transparency. -----