1.2.2. Database for NPM reports installed Much intensive preliminary work and the assistance of the heads of commissions were required to install a database for NPM visit reports. This makes both access and analysis of the reports produced by the commissions thus far easier. Its straightforward handling is also a significant convenience for the planning and implementation of followup visits. Each commissions with its regional competency enters the notes about its observations right after the end of a visit in a secure space on the website that cannot be accessed by the other commissions or by the AOB; they are also able to attach photographs or requested paperwork (documentation, duty rosters, house rules, etc.). After all the commission members have entered their observations and findings, the head of the commission undertakes the human rights assessment and the subsequent approval of the report. The other commissions and the AOB can access the reports only after this approval. Based on the standardised templates for such reports and the anchor points contained therein, both systematic and thematic assessments can be made of either all or only particular reports. At the same time, the database provides the basis for a targeted assessment of entries regarding Austria-wide monitoring priorities and topics with a special focus of the individual commissions. Database provides significant assistance for the AOB and the commissions Since April 2015, anonymised excerpts from human rights assessments by the commissions are being made available to the Human Rights Advisory Council, which consists of NGOs and representatives of the federal government and of the Laender, in order to facilitate the Council’s consultations with the NPM. It goes without saying that these types of instruments only function and facilitate the sharing of information if the database is used by everyone as intended. In order to ensure this, training was held for all commission members and AOB employees. More in-depth assessment in spring 2016 will show if follow-up training is necessary. Human Rights Advisory Council receives anonymised report excerpts 1.2.3. The NPM’s public relations concept After a fundamental debate in December 2014, in which strategy, audience, objectives, content, usefulness and dangers of public relations were discussed in detail by the AOB and all commissions, a pilot team was put in place, which will address questions related to the NPM’s communication strategy. There is agreement to the effect that the necessary discussion about human rights should not be conducted by regularly shaming facilities and institutions or the individuals who act on their behalf. Public confrontations with individuals that head facilities and institutions are only one available instrument. The NPM cannot and may not limit itself to attracting the attention of journalists or to making human rights violations visible and evaluating them in legal terms. Preventive human rights work as such Fundamental principles of public relations defined 8