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webinar
The impact of COVID-19 has drastically affected the way National Preventative Mechanisms (NPMs) monitor places of detention under the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture (OPCAT).
The Chief Ombudsman of New Zealand is the designated NPM under OPCAT for a number of different types of places of detention in New Zealand, including prisons and health and disability facilities (including privately-run aged care facilities), as well as others.
Like many countries, New Zealand was in lockdown for a number of weeks, and could return to lockdown if Covid-19 infection rates increase again. During lockdown, only essential services can operate and only people delivering those services can travel. The government designated the Chief Ombudsman as an essential service for OPCAT inspections.
Ruth will discuss how the New Zealand Office of the Ombudsman addressed the challenges of monitoring places of detention during the lockdown in this rapidly changing environment. Ruth will also talk more broadly about the role of NPMs and OPCAT. The Webinar will provide an opportunity for participants to share experiences, and to ask questions. Questions in advance are encouraged.
Who should attend:
This Webinar is useful for participants who are interested in OPCAT, and NPMs who undertake monitoring functions under OPCAT.
How to attend:
This webinar is free to attend for all participants and will be run on Wednesday 27 May 2020 between 3.00-4.00pm NZST
To register your interest email international@ombudsman.parliament.nz stating your name, organisation, preferred email address and any questions you would like to have answered.
Registrations will be confirmed by email. You will later receive an email invitation containing a link to enable you to join the webinar.
We do not propose to record the webinar. If you have any questions, please also contact: international@ombudsman.parliament.nz
Source: Office of the Ombudsman, New Zealand
