CAT/C/52/2 be addressed in order to ensure that those in detention are not subjected to forms of treatment which violate international standards. I. Concluding remarks 98. Torture, ill-treatment, human rights abuses more broadly and corruption are inextricably linked; where there are higher levels of corruption, more instances of torture and ill-treatment are usually found. In States where there is corruption, there is less likelihood of ill-treatment being discovered and/or appropriate action being taken against those responsible. Therefore, the existence of corruption within a State seriously impedes moves to eradicate torture and other ill-treatment. In order to combat torture and illtreatment, States must take all appropriate steps to eradicate corruption, in accordance with international law. Preventing torture and ill-treatment and preventing corruption are the responsibility of all States, without exception. 99. While present in all States, torture and ill-treatment and petty corruption form part of a broader dynamic which includes democracy, the rule of law and the economic strength of a State. In economically vulnerable States, there may be greater temptation to resort to corruption, including extortion involving the threat or use of violence, as a means of supplementing income. To mitigate this risk, it is essential that State agents receive adequate pay which reflects the work that they do, including their responsibility for vulnerable groups. Likewise, it is essential that appropriate staff are employed, that they receive ongoing training highlighting the importance of human rights and the absolute prohibition of torture and ill-treatment, and that it is made absolutely clear that corruption will not be tolerated and that vigorous action will be taken against anyone found responsible for corruption and corrupt practices. 100. Transparency and accountability are essential to prevent torture, ill-treatment and corruption. Democracy inhibits repression, and where democracy and the rule of law are absent, the incidence of torture, ill-treatment and corruption is generally greater since such acts go undetected or unpunished. In a democracy where, inter alia, transparency, a free press, freedom of information, education of the public to curb corruption and human rights abuses, independent oversight and complaints mechanisms, and an independent and impartial judiciary and judicial process are all valued and protected, there is more information available relating to the actions of State agents and hence greater accountability. Accordingly, the importance of adherence to democratic principles in effectively preventing and eradicating torture, ill-treatment and corruption cannot be overstated. VI. Looking forward 101. Once again, the Subcommittee has responded to the challenges it faces by refining its working practices in the interest of enhancing impact while improving efficiency. Over the past four years, it has transformed its work in relation to NPMs. It has progressively systematized its internal working processes to ensure that the situation in all States parties is under thorough and continual review. It has ensured that its programme of visits is tailored to form an integrated element of its universal approach to its mandate. It has sought to develop collaboration with other United Nations agencies in order to enhance its dialogue with States parties, and continues to offer advice and assistance to States parties, and upon request, to signatories and others interested in establishing mechanisms which are compatible with the Optional Protocol criteria as a potential precursor to participation in the Optional Protocol system. There are, however, limits to what can be achieved within its 21