NCJ Number
88021
Date Published
1981
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The main problems facing correctional administrators in Asian countries are the inadequacy of funds, prison overcrowding, staff problems, the presence of political prisoners and other special types of prisoners, lack of coordination among agencies, lack of research, and the inadequacy of community involvement in corrections.
Abstract
In addition, the changing attitudes of prisoners as well as prison staff may well lead to violence unless some appropriate countermeasures are taken immediately. Current correctional policies reflect both Eastern and Western philosophies. However, national budgets place low priority on crime prevention and the treatment of offenders, in part due to the national efforts to promote economic development. In addition, both planners and the general public maintain generally negative attitudes toward corrections. In almost all Asian countries, the prisons are extremely overcrowded, often because of the large number of remand prisoners and short-term offenders. Lack of specialized staff, a shortage of even ordinary custodial staff, bribery and corruption of prison officials, and low morale among prison staff are the main staff problems. The presence of political prisoners who are continuing their political struggles with the government in power and the presence of members of secret societies or gangster groups are an additional problem, as is the presence of increasing numbers of violent offenders. Many countries also suffer from a lack of coordination between the different branches of the criminal justice system. The inadequacy of studies on correctional work also hampers correctional administrators. Aftercare services are also inadequate due to the lack of community involvement in corrections. Planners and treasury officials need to be aware of the problems so they will make funds available for changes before a violent outburst occurs.