12. Correctional Services
Programme area objective Improved correctional services in line with
Rationale for the support
in conditions compatible with respect for human dignity. Based on case law of the European Court of Human Rights, specific standards have been developed, such as the European Prison Rules. The reports of the UN Committee Against Torture (CAT) and the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) provide concrete and detailed recommendations to each Member State.
Many prisons in Europe suffer from overcrowding, and quality standards across prisons vary. Improvements are needed in terms of both the material conditions in prisons and the quality of the service provision. Many offenders released from prison face challenges hindering their full integration into society. Social reintegration is a key feature of successful crime prevention strategies. This includes the development of interventions designed to break the cycle of release and reoffending. Minimum standards of detention conditions and systems across Europe are required to protect the human rights of prisoners, strengthen mutual trust between Member States, and facilitate mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions. The prohibition on torture and other cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment is enshrined in the 1984 Convention against Torture, the European Convention on Human Rights, and the 1987 European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. These instruments require that detainees are held
international and European human rights standards.
Areas of support
• Prison conditions and treatment of prisoners and persons serving sentences in society. • Alternative sanctions to imprisonment. • Rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders. • Support to prisoners in vulnerable situations, including women and juveniles and minors. • Education, training and
support for prison and probation services staff, including management.
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