Authors:
Maria Puerto Solar, Prison Officer Programme Coordinator – Spain
Hubert Unger, Senior ICT Manager – Austria
Marjan Lukavečki, Sector adviser and Information security adviser – Croatia, Chair of ICT Expert Group
Modern ICT technologies are rapidly transforming all aspects of society, including the prison environment. While prisons have traditionally been resistant to change, the shift towards digitalisation is now undeniable, with many institutions embracing the concept of smart prisons. Digitalisation in prisons is not just about adopting new technologies—it also requires strategic planning and change management to create humane environments that foster rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. By comparing the introduction of ICT technologies across European prisons, we can better understand how digitalisation can be used to achieve these goals.
However, the integration of new technologies also presents risks, such as concerns about safety, confidentiality, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence. It is essential to consider these factors when planning digital initiatives. The impact of prison digitalisation extends to all stakeholders, including prisoners, their families, employees, other government institutions, and the public. For example, ICT has notably transformed communication within prisons, altering the way these groups interact. This summary reflects the findings of EuroPris’ ICT in Prisons Expert Group.