10. In this framework, human rights instruments ranging from the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights to specific texts such as the Standard Minimum Rules for the
Treatment of Prisoners, the Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons
under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment, or the Convention against Torture
and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment provide a set of
rules to help prison staff perform their duties through policies and practices that
are lawful, humane and disciplined. Incorporating such principles into daily conduct strengthens the dignity of this profession. Human rights standards, which constitute the content of this Manual, have often been embodied in national laws and
regulations; they provide invaluable guidance for the performance of a function
that is vital to the good functioning of a democratic society and to the maintenance
of the rule of law.
11. Human rights are not a matter under the exclusive jurisdiction of the State or its
agents. Rather, they are a legitimate concern of the international community,
which has been engaged for half a century in the setting of standards, the establishment of implementation mechanisms and the monitoring of compliance with the
standards. Prison officials carrying out their functions in a manner that respects
and protects human rights bring honour not just to themselves, but also to the
Government which employs them and the nation which they serve. Those who violate human rights will, ultimately, draw the spotlight of international scrutiny and the
condemnation of the international community.
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