A/HRC/23/18 challenges were mentioned, including limited capacity and resources, different working methods and lack of an institutional framework. • It was recommended that an institutional framework on cooperation between United Nations and African mechanisms on torture is developed, so as to define the kind of joint activities that could be undertaken, as well as to define responsibilities of each mechanism. It was recommended to reflect on the form that this institutional framework could take, either a general memorandum of understanding (MoU), or specific MoUs between United Nations and African mechanisms on torture, building on the 10 year capacity building programme (TYCBP) for the AU and on the existing MoU between the AU and OHCHR (2010), or a roadmap to concretely address the way forward on cooperation between United Nations and African human rights mechanisms. • It was also proposed that an amendment is made to the African Charter, in particular to the article 5 by including a specific definition of torture, so as to standardize both United Nations and African norms on the fight against torture. This will allow both mechanisms to enhance their cooperation. • Alternatively, it was also suggested to amend the rules of procedure of both United Nations and African mechanisms on torture, so as to facilitate cooperation through the definition of a clear institutional framework. • United Nations and African mechanisms on torture should get more involved in each other’s activities and make sure that they involve NHRIs, NPMs and NGOs as much as possible. For instance, they can invite members from other mechanisms to their activities as observers or resource persons, including country visits and sessions in conformity with its working methods. • Joint publications could be issued by United Nations and African mechanisms on torture, including an annual bulletin containing main activities and best practices on cooperation. • Joint capacity building activities could also be carried out. In particular, it was suggested to enhance the knowledge of both United Nations and African mechanisms on instruments against torture, including the Robben Island Guidelines and United Nations principles and guidelines. • It was proposed that exchanges of staff take place in order to share best practices and to allow a better knowledge of each other’s working methods. • It was suggested to submit the recommendations resulting from this regional consultation to the annual meetings of United Nations mechanisms (Treaty Bodies and Special Procedures), as well as to the ACPHR plenary. For instance, it was suggested to use the forthcoming annual meeting of the Treaty Bodies’ Chairpersons, which is scheduled to be held in June 2012 in Addis Abba. • United Nations mechanisms on torture and OHCHR should be invited to participate as a partner in the expert workshop to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Robben Island Guidelines which will be held later in 2012 in South Africa. • A joint press release of both United Nations and regional mechanisms, including African mechanisms mandated to fight against torture should be issued on the occasion of the international day in support of victims of torture (26 June). 3. Follow up to recommendations • United Nations and African mechanisms on torture should use their country visits to follow up on each other’s recommendations. Both mechanisms should acknowledge 42