• Issues identified through consultation with civil society, • Issues linked to ongoing public debates around important policies or legislative changes. In this regard, thematic reports can be an important way for NPMs to participate in and contribute to public debates. • Thematic reports may also be a useful way for multiple body NPMs to build their collective identity and multiply their impact by speaking with one voice on a particular topic of concern across their different areas of expertise. Finally, it is important to note that decisions about thematic priorities should be linked to the NPM’s strategic planning process. How to gather information for a thematic report? A thematic report will commonly be based on a number of visits to places of detention, as well as related research and consultations. It may be useful for NPMs (while maintaining their independence) to consult with civil society organisations, experts, and other relevant oversight institutions, both when selecting topics for a thematic report, as well as in the drafting and follow-up phase. This can ensure that the NPM is fully informed of the priorities and concerns of relevant organisations, including those working with specific groups in situations of vulnerability. This kind of consultation around a thematic report can also help the NPM push for implementation of the key recommendations after publication. This kind of consultation, as well as the number of visits that are usually required to prepare a thematic report, means that NPMs usually produce no more than one a year and sometimes even less. Suggested content of a thematic report Thematic reports commonly involve an in-depth analysis including: the problems and risks identified and contributing factors at the legal level, the policy and practice level, the detention management level and even the cultural level. Such reports will often include reference to the relevant international and regional standards and clear recommendations about the results the NPM would like to see. Suggested format of a thematic report The content and format of thematic reports should be responsive to the topic that has been chosen and NPMs may wish to be creative in choosing a format and content that fulfils each report’s specific objective. However, it is good practice to include an executive summary of main findings, a description of the scope and methodology, the rationale for the report, and the analysis and recommendations. In common with other NPM reports, it may be helpful to the reader if the recommendations are also grouped together in one place as well as appearing in the text. 28 NPM Toolkit for Asia Pacific NPM-NHRIs