We know that the practices of seclusion and the use of restraints, particularly where they are used for prolonged periods, are inherently harmful. The impacts on the immediate and ongoing physical and mental health and well-being of those subjected to such practices are well documented. We also know that tangata whenua (indigenous people of New Zealand) are disproportionately subjected to seclusion and restraint, as are tämariki (children) and rangatahi (young people), wähine (women) and tangata whäi kaha (disabled persons). This has serious human rights and Te Tiriti implications. However, the remedial pathway is clear: the use of seclusion and restraint can and should be reduced, if not eliminated altogether. Proactive, preventive alternatives, based on human rights and Te Tiriti and focused on de-escalation and trauma-informed practice, must be at the forefront. Dr Shalev has identified that meaningful change will require a paradigm shift in seclusion and restraint practices in places of detention in New Zealand. We urge the New Zealand Government to prioritise the work required to catalyse this paradigm shift. We warmly thank Dr Shalev for the important human rights contribution she has made through Thinking Outside the Box? and this report. We acknowledge her efforts in collecting data against the unprecedented backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions this caused. We appreciate the efforts of the detaining agencies that co-operated with Dr Shalev, especially in these difficult and evolving circumstances. Finally, we take this opportunity to also warmly thank our partner organisations in New Zealand’s National Preventive Mechanism for their indispensable work towards ensuring everyone deprived of their liberty is treated with respect. 4 Paul Hunt Chief Commissioner Te Amokapua Paula Tesoriero MNZM Disability Rights Commissioner Kaihautü Tika Hauätanga Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Kaihautü Öritenga Mahi Meng Foon Race Relations Commissioner Kaihautü Whakawhanaungatanga-ä-Iwi