How to develop an operational plan: Break down strategic goals into yearly objectives and activities. Ensure simplicity for clarity and track progress with milestones. When to develop plans: New NPMs may start with a preliminary plan for 12-18 months covering initial activities and capacity building, later developing a comprehensive strategy. NPMs within larger institutions might start with a short-term plan integrated into broader institutional planning. How to evaluate the strategy: Set clear, specific goals and indicators from the start. Regularly review progress and adjust based on new information or changing conditions. Evaluation helps reflect on and improve strategies. 2.3 Profile and skills of NPM members and staff NPMs consist of members, appointed through various procedures, and staff, who are recruited to support NPM activities. Members typically serve a defined term, while staff provide continuity and stability. Members may work full- or part-time, with their compensation considered in the NPM’s budget. Both members and staff must adhere to principles of confidentiality, non-discrimination, and “do no harm,” with the same protections against reprisals or interference in their preventive work. What professional expertise is required for NPM members and staff? For an NPM to be effective, its members and staff must have relevant expertise. In addition, the NPM, as an institution, should collectively gather the required variety and balance of different fields of professional knowledge and practical experience to enable it to perform its mandate effectively. Some professional backgrounds are particularly relevant to NPM work, including: • Lawyers. • Medical doctors (including general practitioners, forensic specialists and psychiatrists). • Psychologists. • Human rights specialists (particularly specialised in detention issues). • Social workers. • Anthropologists. • Persons with prior expertise in the field of policing, migration, administration of justice, and places of detention. • Persons with particular experience in working with groups in situations of vulnerability. The entire institution, including its members and staff, at least should have legal and medical expertise, at minimum. The members’ expertise can be supplemented by a pool of experts to accompany their work. NPM Toolkit for Asia Pacific NPM-NHRIs 9