AN ONLINE MEETING OF THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION NPM WITH SUPPORT OF THE UN SUBCOMMITTEE ON PREVENTION OF TORTURE MEMBERS TOOK PLACE ON JUNE 17TH, 2020

The subject of discussion was the exchange of information on measures taken to adapt the work of the NPM during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants shared challenges and lessons learned, and prospects for the future steps.

The Commissioner for Human Rights in the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ms. Elvira Azimova Ombudsperson KZ, noted the ongoing work and measures taken by the Ministry of Health and other state bodies that are a part of the NPM mandate, sharing the information about the agreements reached on free PCS testing of NPM members who monitor closed institutions.

Member of the NPM Coordination Council, PRI Regional Program Manager for Central Asia, Ms. Zhanna Nazarova talked about the measures taken by the Prison service (KUIS of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Қылмыстық-атқару Жүйесі Комитеті), including a number of algorithms, the support of probation officers with planned exemptions, the implementation of recommendations on the work of the call center and informing public through media and social media. Particular attention was paid to issues of access to penal institutions.

The exchange of experience and information will continue among the participating countries.

More materials will be available on the UN SPT website soon.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/100045704769392/posts/165483084985183/?d=n