NCJ Number
210092
Date Published
2005
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This paper provides information on further developments in the prison systems of Central and Eastern Europe and discusses the need for the construction of new prison buildings in the countries of this region.
Abstract
The discussion of developments in the prison systems focuses on the progress made in implementing the international standards for prisons and the problems that impede progress. This study reports on the overall situation in 2001 regarding the management of prisons and the treatment of inmates, making reference to changes that have occurred in the years since the previous study. Separate sections describe the situation in each of the prison systems in Central and Eastern Europe. The study concludes that there have been major developments in all 24 prison systems of the region. This has included the development of modern prison legislation and the transfer of the responsibility for the prison system to the Ministry of Justice. Still, most of the problems identified in the previous report are still present, notably prison overcrowding, the conditions of pretrial detention, and the availability of employment for inmates. The increasing numbers of inmates with drug problems and tuberculosis are growing concerns. This paper advises that it is imperative that new prison building be constructed, since many of the problems identified are a legacy of the neglect of the prisons during totalitarian socialist regimes. 12 references