Section 1 Introduction to National Human Rights Institutions as NPMs National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) are independent bodies established to promote and protect human rights. Accredited by the Global Alliance of NHRIs, they comply with the Paris Principles, ensuring independence and a solid legal foundation. Under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT), NHRIs are often designated as National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs), tasked with preventing torture and ill-treatment through regular monitoring and engagement with authorities. Like any NPM mode, there are advantages and challenges of having NHRIs as NPMs. Some of these include: • Mindset Shift: NHRIs need to transition from reactive complaint-handling to proactive, multidisciplinary work aimed at preventing torture and ill-treatment. • Legislation and Powers: NHRIs may require new or amended legislation to fully comply with OPCAT, ensuring that their NPM functions and powers are explicitly defined and sustainable. • Expertise and Staffing: While NHRIs have broad human rights expertise, they often lack the multidisciplinary skills needed for NPM work, necessitating the recruitment of specialists. • Institutional Capacity: NHRIs can leverage existing departments and resources for NPM tasks, but additional resources and careful planning are crucial. • Coherence and Legitimacy: Centralising detention-related mandates within NHRIs can enhance the effectiveness and clarity of human rights oversight. Existing relationships and credibility can bolster NPM legitimacy, but negative perceptions may hinder effectiveness. • International Links: NHRIs with strong ties to international human rights systems can reinforce national implementation of international recommendations and offer protection against interference. This toolkit is created pursuant to the Asia-Pacific Forum of NHRIs (APF) Asia-Pacific NPM-NHRI Workshop 2024. It offers a guide on best practices and effective strategies to optimise the impact of having NHRIs designated as NPMs in their oversight roles. In these pages, you will find practical advice on various aspects of being an NPM-NHRI. The toolkit covers the discussions from the Workshop: key considerations for strategic planning, visits, effective information exchange, and follow-up on recommendations. NPM Toolkit for Asia Pacific NPM-NHRIs 5