Establish a NPM

Introduction

A National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) is an independent national body designated or established by States parties to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment through a system of regular preventive visits to all places where persons may be deprived of their liberty.

National preventive mechanisms are mandated to examine the treatment and conditions of persons deprived of liberty, make recommendations to the authorities aimed at strengthening safeguards against ill-treatment, and submit proposals and observations concerning legislation and policies relevant to the prevention of torture.

To fulfil this mandate effectively, national preventive mechanisms must enjoy functional independence, adequate resources, unrestricted access to places of detention and relevant information, and a multidisciplinary composition reflecting the expertise necessary for preventive monitoring.

Preventive, constructive and cooperative approach

Guided by a preventive, constructive and cooperative approach, national preventive mechanisms play a central role in promoting systemic improvements and fostering a culture of respect for the dignity and rights of all persons deprived of their liberty.

The mandate of an national preventive mechanism is preventive in nature and should not include the investigation of individual cases and handling complaints.

The role of a national preventive mechanism is to identify patterns, detect risks and systemic shortcomings that may contribute to torture or ill-treatment, and assist the State in addressing them through practical and strategic recommendations. The focus should therefore be on structural issues and conditions that create risks, rather than on the examination of individual complaints.

Institutional setup

Mandate of a NPM

Additional resources

Last updated: November 4, 2026