Part II: Preventing torture: NHRIs in action Montoring places of detention in times of COVID-19 Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the situation in places of detention has worsened and monitoring is more important than ever. Several international organisations, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, have issued recommendations on the protection of rights of persons deprived of liberty as well as monitoring staff, and recommended the continuation of national oversight and monitoring visits. After an initial period of suspension of visits to protect both the monitors and the persons detained or working in places of detention, most monitoring bodies resumed their onsite visits. They adapted their monitoring methodology, the size of their team and the duration of visits to fully respect safety measures and the ‘do no harm’ principle. Some oversight bodies have also been creative in developing new ways of conducting their monitoring work, including by conducting remote monitoring.116 3. After the visit 3.1. Drafting reports and recommendations The visit is not an end in itself but rather the first step in a long-term process of improving the treatment of detainees and the conditions of detention. Visits should be followed by credible reports addressed to the relevant authorities, which include practical recommendations for change. 3.1.1. Internal reporting NHRIs should develop a standard reporting format for visits to places of detention. These notes provide a clear, fact-based account of the visit and contribute to the development of institutional knowledge. They are particularly important when NHRIs plan thematic reports that cover several visits. 3.1.2. Visit report Visit reports are the basis for engaging in dialogue with the authorities and discussing the modalities for implementing recommendations. The reports are addressed to the authorities in charge of the facility visited, as well as higher authorities (such as the relevant government department or ministry), if need be. They should be prepared shortly after the visit and not be unnecessarily long. 116 APT/ODIHR Guidance note: Monitoring places of detention through the covid-19 pandemic, 2020 117