Preventing Torture An Operational Guide for National Human Rights Institutions Control mechanisms In addition to an effective legal framework, there is also a need to establish control mechanisms, as the risk of torture is present in all countries at all times. Control mechanisms can help identify areas of potential risk and propose possible safeguards. Internal administrative control mechanisms which are set up within an institution – such as police inspection services or prison inspection services – help monitor the functioning of State institutions and their respect for legislative norms and regulations. While very useful, internal control mechanisms are, by themselves, insufficient for this preventive work as they lack independence and have a more administrative monitoring function. In addition to internal control mechanisms, it is essential to set up independent mechanisms to visit places of detention. The mere fact that independent bodies can enter places of detention, at any time, has a strong deterrent effect. The objective of these visits is not to document cases of torture or denounce the situation or the authorities. Instead the aim is to analyse the overall functioning of places of detention and provide constructive recommendations aimed at improving the treatment and conditions of detained persons. The international human rights system also provides an important control mechanism, with relevant treaty bodies able to review and make recommendations regarding the State’s legal framework and its implementation. Finally, the media and civil society organizations can contribute to an effective system of checks and balances to prevent and prohibit torture. Responsible media reporting, public education campaigns and targeted awareness-raising initiatives can build greater knowledge and understanding of the issues, influence public opinion and help change the attitudes of stakeholders and decision makers. 4. The relevance of torture prevention to NHRIs NHRIs are usually ideally placed to contribute at each level of an integrated strategy to prevent torture and ill-treatment in their country. NHRIs can contribute to the development of an effective legal framework by: • encouraging the State to ratify relevant international human rights treaties • advocating legal reforms to make torture a criminal offence and to prevent its use by public officials. NHRIs can contribute to implementation of the legal framework by: • reviewing detention procedures • investigating allegations of torture • contributing to training programmes for relevant public officials. NHRIs can contribute to, and act as, control mechanisms by: • cooperating with international bodies • monitoring places of detention • promoting public awareness. 8 | Introduction: The concept of torture prevention and its application