Title page
Contents
Introduction 6
I. What is the mandate and composition of the Working Group? 8
II. What criteria are used to determine whether deprivation of liberty is arbitrary? 10
A. Deprivation of liberty 10
B. Arbitrary deprivation of liberty 11
III. What are the relevant procedures? 21
A. Regular communications procedure, involving investigation of individual cases and resulting in the adoption and issuance of an opinion 21
B. Deliberations of the Working Group 25
C. Urgent action procedure 28
D. Country visits 29
IV. How does the Working Group report on its work? 31
V. How does the Working Group cooperate with other bodies? 32
A. Human rights protection mechanisms 32
B. Non-governmental organizations 32
Annex I. Key documents to consult 33
Annex II. Contact the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention 34
Annex III. Questionnaire to be completed by persons alleging arbitrary arrest or detention 35
Annex IV. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention consent form 44