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Ukraine Working Group

Introduction and Background

 

Ukraine’s prison system faces many challenges due to ongoing conflict and the need for modernisation to ensure safe, humane, and effective correctional services. EuroPris, as a European-wide network for prison professionals, is well-positioned to coordinate expertise, resources, and collaborative support through a dedicated working group that includes representatives from key European and international organisations. By working together, these international partners can offer comprehensive, targeted support to address Ukraine’s pressing needs in Ukraine’s prison system. The coordinated, international approach ensures alignment in efforts, helping to prevent duplication and promote the sharing of diverse expertise.

 

Objectives

 

The EuroPris Working Group for Ukraine will provide continuous and coordinated support to enhance prison conditions, improve services, and ensure the humane treatment of prisoners, addressing the most pressing needs within the Ukrainian Prison Service. Together, we will work to support Ukraine’s objectives in strengthening the management and operation of Ukraine’s prisons, leading to a more effective and humane system and fostering an improved environment for inmates and staff. Ultimately, our cooperation will contribute to a more just and equitable Ukrainian society and strengthen the rule of law.

 

The working group will undertake the following actions:

 

  • Identify the specific needs of the Ukrainian Prison Service: Highlight the current challenges facing the Ukrainian penitentiary system.

  • Map out ongoing efforts and needs for the future: Provide a forum for the sharing of support and expert guidance based on European best practices all the while identifying gaps in support for Ukraine’s prison systems.

  • Fostering international cooperation: Support the implementation of projects aimed at addressing the identified challenges in Ukraine’s prison system.

  • Monitor Progress: Regularly review and assess progress in support, and ensure it adapts to the evolving situation in Ukraine. Avoid duplication and/or conflicting efforts: Ensure efficient and effective implementation of measures by increased transparency and coordination. Assess members’ efforts to support Ukraine’s prison systems.

As part of the working group coordinating support for Ukraine's prison system, the mapping exercise aims to assess both current and planned projects and initiatives, providing a comprehensive overview of international support. Through EuroPris’ Knowledge Management System (KMS), EuroPris received responses from different member countries and including those within the Council of Europe (CoE). 

The inquiry aimed to understand the level of involvement and future plans of the Prison Services or the Ministries of Justice in supporting Ukraine’s prison system and broader criminal justice efforts. The first question asked whether, in the last five years, any intergovernmental activities had been carried out to help Ukraine. The second question focused on whether there were any current efforts to support Ukraine’s prison service and, if so, asked for more details. The third question looked at whether there was a plan for supporting Ukraine, especially with prison-related activities, over the next 1-3 years. Finally, for those who answered "no" to the previous questions, the last question asked if they would be interested in working with other European partners on coordinated support efforts.

View results of the mapping here.

This mapping initiative is an ongoing part of the project, and we encourage members who wish to share information about their activities to reach out to the EuroPris Secretariat.

  • Mapping of ongoing or planned initiatives.
  • Forum for discussion and sharing of information and knowledge.
  • Fostering international cooperation.
  • EuroPris Members: Representatives from various European prison and justice organisations who will share expertise, participate in working group activities, and provide ongoing support.
  • Ukrainian Prison Service: The main beneficiary, responsible for implementing reforms and participating in capacity-building programs.
  • European countries: Potential funders and strategic partners.
  • European Union: Strategic partners to support and sustain the initiative.
  • United Nations: Contributes resources, expertise, and best practices for prison reform.
  • Council of Europe: Offers guidance on human rights, democracy, and legal standards for prison reforms.
  • Non-governmental organisations: Can bring specialised knowledge and resources


We welcome new partners and supporters to join this initiative. Collaboration among various international organisations and stakeholders is essential to achieving greater progress through combined efforts, offering diverse perspectives, and establishing consistent standards. Together, we can create more innovative and comprehensive solutions that will benefit Ukraine's prison system and support its long-term development. 

To show interest in joining the Ukraine Working Project Group, reach out to the EuroPris Secretariat.