Foreword by the Chairman tions will be introduced at some point with regard to matters that did not elicit criticism in earlier years. This, too, gives rise to questions on the part of those to whom the recommendations are addressed – questions that also deserve answers. Finally, the success or failure of our recommendations is decided through dialogue with the people in positions of responsibility. This is why dialogue is also the most important means at the Commission’s disposal. Conditions will be improved only if we are able – through direct discussions with the administration of detention facilities, correctional justice authorities, and members of the government – to persuade them of the need to implement our recommendations. Dialogue is also an important means of self-examination for the Commission, of considering our own activities with a critical eye and for adjusting our perspective accordingly. I am convinced that the NCPT has done an excellent job performing this difficult mission throughout the first eight years of its existence. I would like to thank all of my colleagues on the Commission for the open-minded and amiable atmosphere that prevails, making discussion possible even when there is disagreement. I would also like to express my gratitude to the Head of the Commission›s Secretariat and to the entire staff for the professionalism they regularly display. Finally, my thanks also go to our partners in dialogue to whom our recommendations are addressed, both in the Federal Administration and in the cantonal governments, both for their frankness and for the understanding they demonstrate in dealing with criticism. Alberto Achermann Chairman Activity Report NCPT 2017 3