This year marks the anniversaries of two essential sets of UN standards on offender management: the 10th anniversary of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules) and the 15th anniversary of the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures for Women Offenders – known as the Bangkok Rules.
This double anniversary year offers more than an opportunity for celebration: it gives the global community the opportunity to recommit to penal and prison reform, for the benefit of us all.
While the challenges facing the world’s prisons are great, there is growing momentum for reform. UNODC is working with more than 50 Member States on initiatives to reform prison and penal systems from sites of punishment and incapacitation to justice and rehabilitation. Here are ten stories from prisons that show the power of effective penal reform to change lives.
A prisoner enjoying a book.
“Here in the prison yard, we are always excited to see the Nelson Mandela logo and UNODC’s presence because they put a smile on our faces. While freedom is priceless, I thank UNODC for thinking about people like us who are easily forgotten and giving us a second chance.”
Bassey, a prisoner in Nigeria who took part in a UNODC-supported chess in prisons programme
“I like reading, especially historical fiction. Reading is a distraction, it helps to pass the time and takes my mind off my problems. It also gives me a sense of freedom I cannot get in the jail.”
Dave, a prisoner in the Philippines who took part in a UNODC-supported reading-for-release initiative
"Learning how to install these water systems is a new way of earning a living and also growing as a person. Now I can prove that I have experience and qualifications in this field when I go looking for jobs in the future."
Matías, a prisoner in Mexico who took part in a UNODC-supported water harvesting programme
“It felt like everything I had hoped for had been taken away. But with the constant support of counsellors, I found a way to remain positive, believing that everything happens for a reason.”
Abdullah, a former prisoner in Malaysia who took part in various UNODC-supported vocational training programmes
“Back then, he never participated in any activities. But once he was in prison, he received vocational training, which could help him find a job once he is released. Performing music helps him to become less aggressive and avoid negative influences too… As a father, I am very happy and proud.”
Khun Panya, whose son performed as part of a UNODC-supported prisoner concert initiative in Thailand
“When they first said agriculture, there was no interest. But later we came to like it very much. In the future, when we gain our freedom, the knowledge that we gained will enable us to grow some vegetables or fruit, even if it’s on a small scale, to provide our own food.”
Kasun, a prisoner in Sri Lanka who took part in a UNODC-supported food security initiative
"The purpose of the prison service is not just to lock people who have offended and release them when it is time for them to leave, but rather to prevent them from going back to their old ways and help them reintegrate into society.”
Superintendent Bright Kwame Dogbatse, who has participated in UNODC training on the Nelson Mandela Rules
“Because of this activity, the new Lama can say loud: Don’t underestimate the power of second chances. Change is possible.”
Lama, a prisoner at Beirut’s women’s prison, who took part in UNODC-supported vocational training
“During my time here, I have discovered a new purpose. Learning how to read has been a turning point for me, as it has opened up new possibilities. I have been given the opportunity to educate myself and read literature, something I never before had the chance to do.”
Jumaboy, a prisoner in Tajikistan, who took part in various UNODC-supported rehabilitation initiatives
“They provided me with a job. I am a welder, with a salary. I can provide for myself in the first place and give a helping hand to my family. I have a mother, a sister, a grandmother. I know whatever I do is a drop in the ocean – but this is how I make a difference. It brings me a lot of happiness.”
Adilzhan, a prisoner in Kazakhstan, whose prison was supported by UNODC
