We are compiling a list of news articles, guidance and other resources from around the world on COVID-19 and prisons. This will be updated regularly.
International resources
WEPHREN are collating guidance and other resources on managing COVID-19 in prisons and places of detention from various countries and organisations which can be found here.
The ICPA has a resource page here
Prison Insider is collating information on the measures being taken in different countries here
COVID-19 Behind Bars is an independent journalism project tracking jails, prisons, detention centers, and other facilities of incarceration impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. Link here
The European Prison Observatory has a webpage on COVID-19: What is happening in European Prisons? which can be found here
The Association for the Prevention of Torture has developed a Covid-19 And Persons Deprived Of Liberty Information Hub available here
Europris have a dedicated COVID-19 page here
The Amend Team is developing real-time strategies and guidance for correctional facilities grappling with the life threatening challenges of COVID-19 here
The Fair Trials Covid-19 Justice Project can be found here
Information on measures being taken by different countries in dealing with the pandemic in prisons can be found here
Justice Project Pakistan has produced a live global map which is tracking reported cases of prisoners testing positive and dying of the virus across the world. You can view the map here
The Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody has a Coronavirus Information Hub which can be accessed here
A special open access issue of the Victims and Offenders journal has been published focussing on the impact of the pandemic in prisons in a number of countries. The journal can be accessed here
The Council of Europe has published a report on "Prisons and Prisoners in Europe in Pandemic Times: An evaluation of the medium-term impact of the COVID-19 on prison populations" which is available here
Policy statements and guidance
The WHO has issued guidance on Preventing COVID-19 outbreak in prisons which can be found here
The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture has issued a statement of principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic which can be found here
Penal Reform International have produced a briefing note on Coronavirus: Healthcare and human rights of people in prison here
The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights has issued a statement here
UNODC has published a position paper on Position Paper on COVID-19 preparedness and responses in prisons here
On 23 March the Regional Penitentiary Academy for Latin America organised a virtual conference of senior prison administrators in the region to discuss the issue of Covid 19 and to learn from each other about initiatives to manage the situation in prisons. Professor Andrew Coyle was invited to set the scene for the conference and a copy of his statement is available here
The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative has published a report on COVID - 19 and Prisons in the Commonwealth: Ensuring An Effective Response here
Children in detention are at heightened risk of contracting COVID-19 and should be released: Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore here
Physicians for Human Rights Israel has published a report on Health Remanded to Custody: The Future of the Prison Health Care System in Israel which can be found here
News articles from 13 March - 30 November 2020 can be found here
News 24 October
Americas
US - California Fails to Meet Prisoners' Mental Health Needs
https://www.governing.com/health/california-fails-to-meet-prisoners-mental-health-needs
US - Rising commissary prices in Florida prisons lead to boycotts, outcry
Europe
England and Wales - Probation officers fear repeat of failings in murder case as pressures mount
England and Wales - Should pregnant women be spared jail? Sentencing Council reviews the impact of prison on unborn babies
England and Wales - Lindholme Prison: Half of the inmates feel it's easy to get drugs, one in five developed a problem since being jailed
Northern Ireland - Half of those who leave prison in NI reoffend within a year
Oceania
Australia - Queensland prison guard warned that spit hood was suffocating inmate before her death
News 21 – 23 October
Africa
Nigeria - Reps move to decongest correctional centres nationwide
https://tribuneonlineng.com/reps-move-to-decongest-correctional-centres-nationwide/
Americas
Death row: The secret hunt for lethal drugs used in US executions
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-67150566
US - California prisons say there is no solitary confinement. So why are inmates isolated for years?
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article280739925.html#storylink=cpy
US - COVID-19-related jail decarceration did not affect crime in California, study suggests
https://phys.org/news/2023-10-covid-related-decarceration-affect-crime-california.html
US - Woman Sues Alabama Prison for Leaving Her To Give Birth and Bleed Out in a Shower
Asia
India - Prison inmates in Kodagu District Prison to receive vocational training
Philippines - Supreme Court wants a prisoner rights writ but BuCor disagrees
Europe
Drones to be banned from flying near prisons in England and Wales
England and Wales - I spent two years in jail – I’ve seen first hand how prisoners are failed by overcrowding
https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/prison-hmp-wandsworth-jail-overcrowded-conditions-b2433955.html
England and Wales - Three inmates abscond from Hollesley Bay prison in Suffolk in one day
Oceania
Indigenous Teen Dies in Australian Adult Prison
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/10/23/indigenous-teen-dies-australian-adult-prison
Australia - Inspector queries expansion of maximum security prison
News 20 October
Africa
Nigeria - 4,000 inmates languishing in jail unable to pay N500m fines — Minister
Americas
Private prisons failed in the U.S., but Brazil wants to copy that model
https://brazilian.report/power/2023/10/19/private-prison-failed-lula-model/
Europe
Armenia becomes 45th member state to abolish the death penalty in all circumstances
Staff shortages forcing England’s prisons into emergency ‘red’ measures
England and Wales - Concern raised over mental health of inmates at HMP Peterborough - as some prisoners go without medication for weeks
Ireland - Prison population up since 2013 report called for one-third reduction
Ireland - Calls For More Prison Space Amid Overcrowding
https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/calls-for-more-prison-space-amid-overcrowding/
Oceania
Australia - Indigenous boy, 16, dies a week after being found unresponsive in WA’s Casuarina prison
New Zealand - High prison remand numbers probed
https://waateanews.com/2023/10/20/high-prison-remand-numbers-probed/
News 19 October
Africa
Malawi Relocates Female Inmates to Female-Only Prisons
https://www.voanews.com/a/malawi-relocates-female-inmates-to-female-only-prisons/7316655.html
Americas
US - Prisons and Jails are Violent; They Don’t Have to Be
https://www.vera.org/news/prisons-and-jails-are-violent-they-dont-have-to-be
US - Fewer in Tennessee prisons being granted parole, report shows. Here's why.
Europe
‘Inhumane’: chief inspector describes chaos in English prisons
https://www.ft.com/content/244de68b-213b-441e-a9a5-c258b420b4a2
England and Wales - 'Chaotic' probation system puts people at risk of being called back to prison
Ireland - New female accommodation opens at Limerick Prison
https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2023/1018/1411563-limerick-prison/
Oceania
Australia - Selesa Tafaifa had spent significant time in solitary confinement before altercation that led to her death, inquest hears
News 18 October
Americas
The United States Criminalizes People Who Need Health Care and Housing
https://www.vera.org/news/the-united-states-criminalizes-people-who-need-health-care-and-housing
US (California) - San Francisco slammed for denying inmates access to sunlight
https://www.courthousenews.com/san-francisco-slammed-for-denying-inmates-access-to-sunlight/
Asia
North Korea ramps up public executions
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2023/10/103_361356.html
Philippines - BuCor inks pact with US DOJ, UN on rehab program for extremist offenders
Europe
England and Wales - MoJ ‘put public at risk’ after quietly transferring inmates to open prisons
England and Wales - Concerns over staffing pressures at Kent and Sussex prisons
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-67096774
Crowded house: Are Scotland's overcrowded prisons fit for purpose?
Oceania
Australia - Prison video shows Selesa Tafaifa being wrestled to the ground by officers. Six minutes later she was dead
News 17 October
Africa
Nigeria - Too many inmates remain on ‘death row’
https://punchng.com/too-many-inmates-remain-on-death-row/
Americas
US - Time For A Bureau Of Prisons Task Force To Implement The First Step Act
US - Access To Long-Term Nursing Care For Justice-Involved Elderly
US (Mississippi) - MDOC launches simulation preparing inmates for post-prison life
https://www.supertalk.fm/mdoc-launches-simulation-preparing-inmates-for-post-prison-life/
Asia
Malaysia - Home minister: Rehab programme effective with only one of 800 in parole, community service programme returning to prison
Europe
England and Wales - Justice Secretary to take ‘decisive action’ over indefinite prison sentences
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/justice-secretary-decisive-action-over-182902843.html
England and Wales - Bristol Prison deemed unsafe as 10 inmates die since 2019
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-67122056
Scotland's 'failing' £240million prison escort service blasted by warders' union
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scotlands-failing-240million-prison-escort-31201773
News 14-16 October
Americas
Red-flags raised around medically-assisted death in Canada’s prisons
https://globalnews.ca/news/10023956/maid-prisons-canada/
5 killed in Mexico prison riot. Authorities cite dispute between inmates
Billion-dollar supersize prisons are slated to be built across the U.S. But do they help or hurt public safety?
https://news.yahoo.com/billion-dollar-prisons-built-across-us-public-safety-090001432.html
US - Louisiana denies clemency hearings to five death row prisoners
Asia
India - Delhi government considering allowing conjugal visits in prisons
Malaysia - Budget 2024: Prisons Dept empowers inmates with TVET skills
Europe
England and Wales - New rules set out for foreign criminals and low-level offenders
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-67116658
Two-thirds of prisons officially overcrowded in England and Wales
Prisons plan could add 1,000 places in England and Wales amid overcrowding
England and Wales - Surge in number of women being jailed as overcrowding crisis grips prisons
England and Wales - Younger prisoners facing health care crisis as access to key appointments and specialist care is denied
England and Wales - Overdoses double at prison where inmates say it’s ‘easy’ to get drugs
England and Wales - HMP Five Wells: Former staff describe 'dangerous' conditions
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-67102655
Large rise in number of deaths in Irish prisons last year, Inspector of Prisons says
Ireland - Mountjoy Prison conditions 'shocking' - report
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/1013/1410827-irish-prisons/
Jersey ballet company performs for island's prisoners
https://www.itv.com/news/channel/2023-10-15/jersey-ballet-dancers-perform-for-islands-prisoners
Northern Ireland - Solicitor makes call for ‘full public scrutiny of prisons’ as Maghaberry inmate wins segregation case
News 13 October
Africa
South Africa - Correctional Services Department Re-Arrested 90% Of Prison Escapees In 2022/23
Americas
El Salvador is gradually filling its new mega prison with alleged gang members
US - Describing Modern Day Prison Labor’s Roots in Slavery, Groups Urge Court to Uphold Rights of Incarcerated Workers Subjected to Harsh Conditions, Inhumane Treatment
US - ACLU sues Delaware for ‘deliberate indifference’ to medical care in prisons
https://whyy.org/articles/aclu-sues-delaware-prison-medical-care-deliberate-indifference/
Asia
Taiwan - Court approves polling booth in Taipei Prison
https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202310120018
Europe
England and Wales - Criminals facing sentences under six months ‘will be spared prison’
Just 557 prison spaces left and ‘criminals to be spared jail’ as population hits record high
England and Wales - ‘Inevitable’ prison spaces will run out as judges ‘delay sentencings’ to avoid overwhelming system
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prisons-full-judges-sentencing-chalk-b2428731.html
HMP Eastwood Park: Report finds prison has highest self-harm rate in England and Wales
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-67088567
Northern Ireland - Magilligan prisoners’ writing skills recognised in UK-wide competition
New bill adds additional jail time for dodging prison sentences in Romania
https://www.romania-insider.com/bill-additional-jail-time-dodging-prison-sentences-romania-2023
News 12 October
Americas
Canada’s youth justice system should extend beyond age 18
https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/october-2023/youth-justice-adulthood/
Inmates free hostages at Paraguay prison, end riot
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20231011-inmates-free-hostages-at-paraguay-prison-end-riot
US - One in Five: Ending Racial Inequity in Incarceration
https://www.sentencingproject.org/reports/one-in-five-ending-racial-inequity-in-incarceration/
US - Oklahoma prison held inmates in shower stalls for days
US - Arizona inmate suffers horrific injuries after technician does not remove metal shackles during MRI
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/arizona-inmate-injuries-mri-scan-b2427852.html
US - California bills to reform prisons have a mixed record of success this session
https://www.sfchronicle.com/california/article/prison-reform-18420277.php
Europe
England and Wales - Convicted criminals could avoid jail because prisons are 'full'
https://news.sky.com/story/convicted-criminals-could-avoid-jail-because-prisons-are-full-12982756
England and Wales - SBFM to launch academies in prisons
https://www.fmj.co.uk/sbfm-to-launch-academies-in-prisons/
England and Wales - Bristol café to be staffed by ex-offenders given go ahead
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-67006633
Slovenia - Lack of prison officers noted as MPs discuss judiciary budgets
https://english.sta.si/3223569/lack-of-prison-officers-noted-as-mps-discuss-judiciary-budgets
News 11 October
Africa
South Africa - More special remissions coming to reduce overcrowding in prisons
Americas
Paraguay's biggest prison set ablaze, rioting inmates take guards hostage
US prisoners who did not consent to ivermectin Covid treatment win payout
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/10/arkansas-prison-covid-ivermectin-lawsuit
US - New Jersey prisons flagrantly flout law limiting solitary confinement, watchdog finds
US - California emergency regulations would change use of solitary confinement in prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Wandsworth Prison unsafe and inhumane - watchdog report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-67065800
England and Wales - Inside hell-hole men's prison dubbed 'no-toilet jail' where inmates have to use bottles
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/inside-hell-hole-mens-prison-31152081
Northern Ireland - Prisoners at Maghaberry use gardening and baking skills to raise £4,500 for RNLI
News 5 – 10 October
World Psychiatric Association Releases Report Opposing the Death Penalty for People with Mental Illness or Development and Intellectual Disabilities
Africa
Ghana - Prison Officers to receive specialised training in convict management – Deputy Interior Minister
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1264880/prison-officers-to-receive-specialised-training.html
'Money for freedom': Morocco's solution to prison overcrowding
https://www.newarab.com/news/money-freedom-moroccos-plan-prison-overcrowding
Americas
Canada - Calls for more oversight: 'The only people who know what's going on in provincial jails are the inmates'
Canada - Mould halts in-person visits at Newfoundland's notorious, rodent-infested prison
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/hmp-mould-canadian-press-1.6986430
Ecuador extends state of emergency after prison deaths
https://borneobulletin.com.bn/ecuador-extends-state-of-emergency-after-prison-deaths/
U.S. Local Jail Population Surges by 4% in Mid-2022, Female Inmates Increase by 9%
https://www.washingtoninformer.com/incarceration-rates-rise-2022/
US - Youth Justice: Lessons From the Last 50 Years
https://www.sentencingproject.org/policy-brief/youth-justice-lessons-from-the-last-50-years/
US - Graying prisons face accelerating health care needs
https://www.route-fifty.com/management/2023/10/aging-prisoners/390893/
US - N.Y. prison watchdog report says inmates struggle to voice grievances
US - Racial disparities persist in Alaska’s prisons
US - Inmate Deaths Raise Questions About Temperatures in Oklahoma Prisons
Asia
Human rights commission urges Korea to abolish death penalty
https://m.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20231010000622
Fire in Lebanese prison leaves 3 dead and 16 injured
Malaysia - Home Ministry studying possibility of home detention, suspended sentencing as part of prison reform
Europe
Prison places in England and Wales are ‘bust’, says governors’ union chief
Over 100,000 children in England and Wales have parent in prison, analysis shows
England and Wales - Indeterminate prison sentences – when 18 months can last 18 years
https://www.channel4.com/news/indeterminate-prison-sentences-when-18-months-can-last-18-years
England and Wales - Drug use 'rife' at HMP Dartmoor as watchdog slams Devon prison
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/drug-use-rife-hmp-dartmoor-8816602
England and Wales - Lancaster prison criticised after inmate is kept chained to officers as he dies of Covid-19
England and Wales - Fred Sirieix opens restaurant in Welsh prison
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/fred-sirieix-opens-restaurant-welsh-27840805
England and Wales - Ministry of Justice triggers Operation Safeguard as HMP Elmley on Sheppey ‘reaches capacity’ with problems ‘all across the county’
Scotland's prison population projected to hit record high
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-67004354
Scotland - Prison chiefs urged to tackle ‘cramped’ living conditions in HMP Perth
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/courts/4773963/perth-prison-inspection-cells/
Oceania
Australia - Woman in spit hood told Queensland prison guards four times she couldn’t breathe before dying, inquest hears
Australia - NSW women’s prison lacking hundreds of security cameras despite guard sexually assaulting detainees
New Zealand - Christchurch Men’s Prison reaches ‘operational capacity’, prisoners moved to other sites
New Zealand - Prison document reveals staff concerns over increasingly violent youth
News 4 October
Africa
Uganda - Send to jail only those who deserve to be there – CJ
Americas
Honduras, the country where the Bukele method failed
US - For Incarcerated Women and Their Families, Equal Access to Education Transforms Lives
https://www.vera.org/news/women-in-prison-need-equal-access-to-education
US (California) - Solitary Confinement Reform And Other Bills May Get A Second Chance In 2024
https://witnessla.com/solitary-confinement-reform-and-other-bills-may-get-a-second-chance-in-2024/
US - Pennsylvania inmates sue over ‘torturous conditions’ of solitary confinement
Venezuela’s Neverending Prison Crisis
https://www.caracaschronicles.com/2023/10/03/venezuelas-neverending-prison-crisis/
Asia
India - Uttarakhand govt to hike minimum wages of prisoners employed in prison labour
Philippines - Solons want BJMP, BuCor’s records system to go digital
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1840679/solons-want-bjmp-bucors-records-system-to-go-digital
Europe
England and Wales - UK could rent space in foreign jails to ease shortage of cells
England and Wales - Prison inmates ‘at risk of death’ due to healthcare failings, says inquest report
England and Wales - ‘I collapsed and woke up in handcuffs’: Prison isn’t safe for pregnant women, so why are we locking them up?
Ireland - Call for additional funding to address prison overcrowding
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/call-for-additional-funding-to-address-prison-overcrowding
Malta - ‘Inhumane cage’ in prison removed ahead of European inspection
Scotland's prisons under 'acute pressure' as populations rise by almost 10 per cent
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/scotlands-prisons-under-acute-pressure-155212460.html
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Guard’s keys stolen, inmates hospitalised after ‘affray’ inside juvenile prison
News 3 October
Africa
Uganda – Prisons turn inmates into cotton farmers
https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/prisons-turns-inmates-into-cotton-farmers-NV_171664
Americas
US - Bill aims to lower price markups, ease financial burdens in California prisons
Asia
Cambodia - Random drug tests to target prison officials, inmates: GDP
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/random-drug-tests-target-prison-officials-inmates-gdp
A more humane approach to prison life offers lessons for Hong Kong
Five inmates slay guards, flee Myanmar’s Dawei prison
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/escape-10022023142116.html
Europe
Cyprus - Juvenile prison plans in final stages
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/10/02/juvenile-prison-plans-in-final-stages/
England and Wales - Criminals may be freed early to ease overcrowding as prison crisis laid bare
England and Wales - ‘You cr** where you eat’: Grim state of UK prisons revealed as inmates crammed into cells for 23 hours a day
England and Wales - HMP Aylesbury makes 'remarkable' improvement, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-66984123
England and Wales - HMP Five Wells officers 'left alone with 64 prisoners'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-66984322
Scotland - Psychoactive drugs making inmates violent and aggressive
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-66985699
News 30 September – 2 October
Africa
Uganda – Costly incarceration: Elderly inmates plead for more support
https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/report/costly-incarceration-elderly-inmates-plead-fo-NV_171451
Americas
US - ‘There’s geniuses in there’: how three chefs rose from prison to the top of the culinary world
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/oct/02/chefs-from-prison-to-top-of-culinary-world
US - Texas prisons are as hot as ovens. I’m being cooked like a rotisserie chicken
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/01/texas-prison-extreme-heat-diary
Asia
India - Undertrials in jail for long should get bail even if offence serious: Bombay High Court
Calm returns to Iran prison after protest by inmates, state media report
Singapore - Salvation Army initiatives allow prisoners to play with their kids, join support groups
Europe
England and Wales - 'Serious concern' about Long Lartin as prison boss calls for closures
England and Wales - 'A prison officer will get killed': Staff warn of chaos and violence inside flagship super prison
England and Wales - HMP Lewes should no longer be used, says watchdog
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/23819399.hmp-lewes-no-longer-used-says-watchdog/
England and Wales - Prisoners Building Homes scheme nominated for prestigious award
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/prisoners-building-homes-scheme-nominated-8781803
Oceania
New Zealand - Women's prisons should routinely offer pregnancy tests on arrival, inspectorate recommends
News 29 September
Africa
Nigeria - Prison congestion: stakeholders blame state laws
https://thenationonlineng.net/prison-congestion-stakeholders-blame-state-laws/
Americas
UN Report Urges End to Forced US Prison Labor—a 'Contemporary Form of Slavery'
https://www.commondreams.org/news/racism-in-the-criminal-justice-system
The Largest Form of Criminal Punishment in the United States Is Not Prison. It’s Still Awful.
https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2023/09/prison-probation-parole-reform-mass-incarceration.html
US - Louisiana pulls incarcerated girls out of controversial youth prison
https://www.ksla.com/2023/09/28/louisiana-pulls-incarcerated-girls-out-controversial-youth-prison/
Europe
Plan for 20,000 more prison places in England and Wales won’t be complete until 2030
Criminals in England and Wales spared jail sentences because of overcrowding
England and Wales - We should all care about the dire state of our prisons
https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-state-of-our-prisons-should-worry-us/
England and Wales - New Prison Education Service to cut crime
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-prison-education-service-to-cut-crime
England and Wales - 11 years for stealing a mobile phone: Inside the lives of IPP prisoners serving sentences of 'psychological torture'
England and Wales - How young people in prison are getting a fresh start by giving free haircuts to the homeless
England and Wales - Lancashire super prison public inquiry reopening is delayed
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-66947245
England and Wales - Immediate action to improve HMP Woodhill
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/immediate-action-to-improve-hmp-woodhill
Russia's Harsh Prison System Is 'A Bottomless Reservoir Of Mercenaries,' Says Rights Advocate
https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-prison-system-interview-olga-romanova/32614416.html
Sweden to build special prison wards for young offenders
https://english.news.cn/20230929/66e2de0ce90d4da09ea8964a912513e3/c.html
Oceania
Western Australia - Isolation 'should be outlawed' for youth justice system
https://www.mandurahmail.com.au/story/8369096/isolation-should-be-outlawed-for-youth-justice-system/
News 27 – 28 September
Americas
Canada - ‘I feel at peace’: Iqaluit inmates learn carving skills
https://nunatsiaq.com/stories/article/i-feel-at-peace-iqaluit-inmates-learn-carving-skills/
US - ‘It’s torture’: Solitary confinement tests limits of California prison reform
https://www.sfchronicle.com/california/article/solitary-confinement-prison-reform-18369739.php
US (North Carolina) - NC prison staffer sounds alarm on overcrowding, neglect of basic prisoner health and safety
Asia
India - From Creche To Immunisation Centres, Tihar Jail Attempts Give Better Services To Female Prisoners' Children
Myanmar - Prisons Increase Restrictions Curb on Food Parcels for Inmates
https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/prisons-increase-restrictions-curb-food-parcels-inmates
Europe
Belgium - No short-term miracle solution for prisons, unions say
https://www.brusselstimes.com/712074/no-short-term-miracle-solution-for-prisons-unions-say
England and Wales - Prisons ‘out of control’ as drug testing regime millions over budget and targets missed
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prison-drug-testing-targets-missed-b2419719.html
England and Wales - Criminal gangs in UK sending recruits to train as prison officers, union warns
Pepper spray could be used at young offender institutions in England and Wales
England and Wales - Psychologists having to talk to young offenders through cell doors
England and Wales - HMP Littlehey criticised after ill inmate left on toilet for 14 hours
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-66913295
England and Wales - Record number of trials adjourned over failure to bring suspects from prison to court
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/trial-prisons-court-backlog-delays-b2414412.html
Improved governance at supervised prison units in Northern Ireland, review finds
Turkey - Report exposes systematic rights violations of prisoners in Tarsus jail
Oceania
New Zealand - Inspectorate Report Examines Women In Prison Who Have Young Children
News 26 September
Africa
Kenya - Contagious scabies scare reported at Kakamega GK Prison
Americas
US - Supreme Court's interpretation of the word "and" could affect thousands of prison sentences each year
US - Dozens of inmates at Utah prison infected in scabies outbreak
US - Why are hundreds of Missourians stuck in jail, not treated for mental health issues?
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-09-hundreds-missourians-stuck-mental-health.html
Asia
India - Parliamentary panel bats for better facilities for women prisoners
Europe
One in 10 prisons in England and Wales should be shut down, watchdog says
Violence, isolation and rat-infested cells: insiders on the state of English and Welsh prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/sep/25/insiders-on-the-state-of-english-and-welsh-prisons
The state of prisons in England and Wales – in numbers
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/sep/26/the-state-of-prisons-in-england-and-wales-in-numbers
England and Wales - ‘Antiquated’ Pentonville Prison found unfit as place for prisoners to live or be rehabilitated
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/hmp-pentonville-prison-unfit-inmates-b2418506.html
England and Wales - Exeter Prison failures linked to prisoner's death
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/exeter-prison-failures-linked-prisoners-8778574
England and Wales - HMP Highpoint: Restraint use on ill prisoner 'inappropriate', says watchdog
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-suffolk-66865904
Ireland - Solutions to prison overcrowding
https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2023/09/26/solutions-to-prison-overcrowding/
News 23 – 25 September
Americas
US prison labor is cruel and pointless legalized slavery. I know first-hand
US - Why Are So Many Inmates at This Federal Prison Dying?
https://www.npr.org/2023/09/22/1198908174/why-are-so-many-inmates-at-this-federal-prison-dying
Venezuela completes first phase of retaking control of prisons run by prisoners
Asia
India - SC calls for compassion in release of long-term prisoners
India - Released prison inmates given business kits
Nepal - Govt grants general amnesty to 7,000 prisoners over five years
Europe
Cyprus - Prison union calls for end to understaffing amidst inmate clash
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/09/22/prison-union-calls-for-end-to-understaffing-amidst-inmate-clash/
England and Wales - Prison inmates row 510 miles for charity
https://www.henleystandard.co.uk/news/community/183741/prison-inmates-row-510-miles-for-charity.html
England and Wales - Hayling Island: Criminals choose beach clean over prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-66889416
Inspector criticises 'degrading' Irish prison conditions
https://www.fm104.ie/news/fm104-news/inspector-criticises-degrading-irish-prison-conditions/
Scotland - Overcrowding at HMP Addiewell laid bare as prison reached 'over 100 per cent capacity'
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/overcrowding-hmp-addiewell-laid-bare-31001792
Prison officials in eastern Turkey hogtied two female inmates for hours: report
News 22 September
Americas
US - Texas inmate killed by cellmate during a statewide prison lockdown
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/09/21/texas-prisons-lockdown-inmate-killed/
US (Alabama) - Corrections in ‘tough situation’ over staffing, crowding, aging prison population
VR transports users to notorious Venezuelan prison: ‘The world needs to know’
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2023/09/22/venezuela-torture-virtual-reality-helicoide/
Asia
India - Parliamentary panel recommends GPS trackers to reduce overcrowding in prisons
India - Prisoner’s rights don’t part ways at jail gates: Madras High Court
India - Raised behind bars: How Tihar takes care of inmates' kids
Critics claim drug use clemency proposal to reduce overcrowding in Indonesia’s prisons shortsighted
Thailand to clamp down on cannabis use in major U-turn on drug policy
Europe
Cyprus - Brawl at Nicosia prison contained by guards
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/09/21/brawl-at-nicosia-prison-contained-by-guards/
Scots prisons 'bursting at seams' as inmates sharing single cells due to overcrowding crisis
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/prisons-bursting-seams-inmates-sharing-30993781
Suicide risk in male incarcerated individuals in Spain: clinical, criminological and prison-related correlates
https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-023-01315-y
Oceania
Australia - Community to benefit from prison dairy program supplying milk to WA jails
News 21 September
End overreliance on punitive measures to address drugs problem – UN report
Americas
More than 5,600 Jamaicans empowered with restorative justice skills
US - Final price tag on Alabama’s new 4,000-bed prison could top $1 billion
US - Private Prison Firm Pays Mississippi $5 Million After Audit Found Understaffing Issues
https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/southeast/2023/09/20/741126.htm
US - Texas' lockdown of its overheated state prisons is worsening an already volatile situation
Venezuela sends 11,000 troops to retake prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-66873494
Asia
India - Literacy lessons for jail inmates
Iran - Psychological and Mental Torture of Female Prisoners in Qarchak Prison by Inhumane Sentences
Europe
England and Wales - Childhood in care raises risk of entering English youth justice system eightfold
England and Wales - HMP Foston Hall: Council approves expansion of prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-66875049
England and Wales - Wrexham: HMP Berwyn given food hygiene rating of one
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23803976.wrexham-hmp-berwyn-given-food-hygiene-rating-one/
Scotland - Lack of scrutiny of prison healthcare standards ‘a national disgrace’, MSPs told
Oceania
Australia - Better use of tech in prisons would help with transition back into society, says researcher
https://phys.org/news/2023-09-tech-prisons-transition-society.html
News 20 September
Africa
Cabo Verde: Total of 2,100 inmates in jails, 34pct more than in 2018 – minister
Kenyan prison warden shares rare glimpse into inmates’ hidden world
Can Zimbabwe’s First ‘Open Prison’ for Women Open Doors to a New Life?
Americas
US - Juvenile Life Without Parole Sentences Are a Failed Policy That Needs to End
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/juvenile-life-without-parole-sentences
US - Can restorative justice break the cycle of mass incarceration?
US - Nebraska prison report raises concern about long-term solitary confinement
US - California Inmates Accuse Prison Commissaries of Price Gouging
https://capitalandmain.com/california-inmates-accuse-prison-commissaries-of-price-gouging
US - South Carolina obtains lethal injection drugs to carry out death penalty again after decade-long hiatus
US - Florida prisons use artificial intelligence to surveil calls
Asia
India - Poor people are more prone to detention, says Supreme Court’s justice SK Kaul
Nepal president pardons jail term of 670 prisoners
https://telanganatoday.com/nepal-president-pardons-jail-term-of-670-prisoners
Philippines - Hope behind bars: Transforming lives through livelihood training
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners at Lancashire jail wait too long for their complaints to be heard due to staffing levels
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/prisoners-lancashire-jail-wait-long-27735737
Oceania
Australia - Queensland Human Rights Commission recommends ridding women's prisons of traumatising strip searches
News 19 September
Americas
Canada - Oral surgeon pleads guilty to letting prison guard do dental work on sedated inmate
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/bourget-pleads-guilty-1.6970109
I spent nine years in a Colombian women’s prison. This is what I learned
Incarceration rates, falling in every US state, drive significant shifts in risk of prison for marginalized groups
US - Incarcerated Seniors Lack Access to Hospice Care
https://hospicenews.com/2023/09/18/incarcerated-seniors-lack-access-to-hospice-care/
Asia
India - People Remaining Behind Bars As Undertrials A Disturbing Trend : Supreme Court Judge Justice SK Kaul
India - At Delhi jails, warm water in winters for inmates soon
Europe
England and Wales - Inspectors urge independent review into ‘struggling’ Probation Service
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/probation-damien-bendall-england-wales-b2413932.html
England and Wales - HMP Foston Hall: New prison 'apartments' would allow children overnight
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-66841181
England and Wales - Inside Preston Prison: Rat-infested wings, poor living conditions and 'heavy-handed staff'
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/inside-preston-prison-rat-infested-27735337
England and Wales - Prisoner who heard voices from 'pig man' died at jail where mental health care 'not of required standard'
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/prisoner-who-heard-voices-pig-27737973
Oceania
New Zealand - Quarter of all youth going through the courts given adult sentences
News 16 – 18 September
Africa
Africa Court orders Tanzania to end caning in jail sentences
Americas
US - Bureau Of Prisons’ Challenges With First Step Act Release Dates
US - Louisiana prisoner suit claims they’re forced to endure dangerous conditions at Angola prison farm
US - More people are dying in Louisiana prisons, some before getting a trial
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/reports-shows-staggering-spike-in-louisiana-prison-deaths
US - Oklahoma is set to execute 10th man in less than two years
https://www.readfrontier.org/stories/oklahoma-is-set-to-execute-10th-man-in-less-than-two-years/
Asia
Indian jail sets shining example for prison reform as inmates polish diamonds
Jordan - 351 prison alternative penalties issued in August – MoJ
Nepal - Rautahat jail overcrowded, prisoners face sheer inconvenience
Europe
England and Wales - Urgent calls for swift action in self-harm related prison deaths
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/prison-self-harm-deaths-daniel-khalife-b2413313.html
England and Wales - Almost 3,000 prisoners remain incarcerated under IPPs
https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/23792410.almost-3-000-prisoners-remain-incarcerated-ipps/
England and Wales - The toxic prison attitude that can cost inmates their lives
https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/why-inmates-dont-get-the-healthcare-they-need/
England and Wales - Britain’s broken justice system revealed as prisoners trapped in jail for five years before trial
Oceania
Australian state suspends human rights law to lock up more children
Australian-First Aboriginal Healing Unit In Prison Opens
https://www.miragenews.com/australian-first-aboriginal-healing-unit-in-1086006/
New Zealand - Nationwide crisis looms as Corrections staff consider strike action
https://www.chrislynchmedia.com/news-items/corrections-staff-across-new-zealand-to-go-on-strike
News 15 September
Africa
Rights groups call for 'international inspection' of Egypt’s prisons after leaked videos allegedly show abuses
https://www.newarab.com/news/inspection-egypts-prisons-demanded-after-leaked-videos
Americas
Bahamas - Acting Prison Commissioner ‘making progress’ in efforts to become licenced as correctional facility
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2023/sep/14/acting-prison-commissioner-making-progress-efforts/
Canada - Mental health and prison: a tragic cycle that repeats itself
Salvadoran Prisons House Over 105,000 Inmates
https://www.telesurenglish.net/news/Salvadoran-Prisons-House-Over-105000-Inmates-20230914-0010.html
US - Appeals court temporarily halts order to move juvenile detainees from Louisiana adult prison
Asia
Taiwan - Taipei Prison censured by Control Yuan over mistreatment of prisoners
https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202309140029
Europe
England and Wales - Justice Committee to examine the future prison population and estate capacity
England and Wales - Crown court backlog hits new record high with more than 64,000 cases waiting
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/court-backlog-record-high-england-b2411465.html
Turkey - Protest against torture of women in Patnos prison
https://anfenglish.com/human-rights/protest-against-torture-of-women-in-patnos-prison-69314
News 14 September
Africa
Kenyans don’t trust the courts - the main factors behind this trend
https://theconversation.com/kenyans-dont-trust-the-courts-the-main-factors-behind-this-trend-212710
Americas
Canada - Officers have filed scores of scathing reports about 'unfit' conditions at HMP. We obtained them
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/hmp-reporting-system-1.6962802
U.S. prisons chief insists to Senate panel there’s been ‘visible change’ in the system
Asia
Bahrain prison hunger strike ‘ended’: officials
https://guardian.ng/news/bahrain-prison-hunger-strike-ended-officials/
Philippines - CHR backs measure on prisons monitoring
https://manilastandard.net/news/national/314370113/chr-backs-measure-on-prisons-monitoring.html
Europe
England and Wales - Our prisons are in crisis
https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/our-prisons-are-in-crisis-2/
England and Wales - HMP Wakefield: Calls for action over conditions at city’s high security jail
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/hmp-wakefield-calls-action-over-132000866.html
Wim Hof activities and yoga for La Moye prison inmates funded by Jersey government grant
Scotland - Why Britain’s new £85m women’s ‘superjail’ has got off to an awful start
News 13 September
Americas
Canada - An overdose prevention site for inmates is coming to this Ontario prison
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/overdose-prevention-service-collins-bay-prison-1.6960429
US - New report examines how Kentucky fills jails and prisons by criminalizing poverty
Europe
The dire state of British prisons – and what they could learn from Europe to get better
England and Wales - Fears prisons could be run by gangs as thousands of guards quit
England and Wales - David Morgan: Dead prisoner shown 'shocking lack of concern' by jail staff
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-66786214
Scotland - Number of inmates expected to soar as prison populace exceeds 8,000
Scotland - Prisons inspector warns delay to Barlinne rebuild would be 'travesty'
News 12 September
$1bn in aid has been used to support failed ‘war on drugs’ over past decade, says report
Americas
Canada - Indigenous-led restorative justice program in development in Peace Region
El Salvador Is Imprisoning People at Triple the Rate of the US
Jamaica - Restorative justice plays vital role in healing the nation, says acting director
US - Study finds probation associated with poorer health for Black Americans
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1001066
US - Louisiana prisons need better oversight of sentencing changes, auditor says
Asia
India - Jail staff trained to screen mentally ill prisoners in Odisha
Malaysia says death row prisoners can appeal sentences
Europe
Armenia ratifies Protocol N. 13 Concerning the Abolition of Death Penalty in All Circumstances
https://armenpress.am/eng/news/1119279.html
England and Wales - Concerns at Wellingborough's £253m 'super prison' HMP Five Wells with drugs, hooch, mobiles and SIM cards and staff safety issues
Scotland - Overcrowded prisons are an indictment of a society that jails chaotic people – Karyn McCluskey
News 9 – 11 September
Americas
US - Louisiana’s Notorious Angola Prison Will No Longer Hold Children
US - As NH prison population declines, parole violators make up bigger share
Asia
India - SC-appointed panel on jail reforms slams solitary confinement of death row convicts — ‘most egregious’
India - Byculla Jail to be redeveloped into vertical prison
Malaysia - Law on revision of death penalty, life imprisonment comes into force Sept 12
Philippines - Bilibid shutdown by 2028 eyed
https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/09/09/news/national/bilibid-shutdown-by-2028-eyed/1909226
Saudi Arabia: 100 people executed as authorities continue relentless ‘killing spree’
Europe
England and Wales - Indefinite sentences should be suicide risk factor, says prisons watchdog
England and Wales - Around 40 inmates moved after HMP Wandsworth prison break
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/23779420.around-40-inmates-moved-hmp-wandsworth-prison-break/
Italy - Inmate dies in Viterbo prison, another attempts suicide
Lord Advocate gives green light for safe drug consumption rooms in Scotland
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/lord-advocate-gives-green-light-30910581
Oceania
New Zealand - Election 2023: Māori Party want to abolish prisons by 2040, separate tikanga justice system to address inequities
News 8 September
World Coalition Publishes Country Mapping Report on Women on Death Row
Americas
Canada - Released prisoners should get help to reenter society, says Cowichan MP
Mexico Supreme Court decriminalizes abortion in landmark decision
Asia
Philippines - Bilibid inmate reveals 'lax' situation in maximum security prison
Europe
England and Wales - Terror suspect escape prompts furious political row over prison cuts
Amount of Raac in English and Welsh prisons won’t be known for at least two months
England and Wales - Guys Marsh prison's performance 'of concern' says report
England and Wales - HMP Wandsworth needs closing, says chief inspector of prisons
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/hmp-wandsworth-needs-closing-says-221457039.html
Oceania
Australia - NSW Law Society welcomes planned expansion of drug court operations
News 7 September
Americas
In Bolivia’s Largest Prison, Inmates Make The Rule And There Are No Guards
US - Texas prison system issues statewide lockdown to combat illegal drugs, inmate violence
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/09/06/texas-prisons-contraband-visitors/
US - D.C. Councilmember Renews Push To Ban Solitary Confinement At D.C. Jail
https://dcist.com/story/23/09/06/nadeau-to-introduce-bill-solitary-confinement-dc-jail/
Asia
Cambodia - Top official calls for regular inspections of prisons
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501356341/top-official-calls-for-regular-inspections-of-prisons/
Hong Kong detention center overflowing as thousands serve time for protests
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/hk-prisons-overflowing-09062023102749.html
Nepal - Govt inhumanity in Central Jail: Overcrowding and dilapidated buildings increase risks to inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Record prison overcrowding ‘an embarrassment for UK’
https://www.thejusticegap.com/record-prison-overcrowding-an-embarrassment-for-uk/
Stop detaining children in Luxembourg Prison, urges anti-torture committee
Oceania
Australia - Supporting the ‘invisible victims’ of the criminal justice system
https://lsj.com.au/articles/supporting-the-invisible-victims-of-the-criminal-justice-system/
News 6 September
Africa
South Africa - Kutama Fire: Inside The Torching Of Limpopo's Maximum Security Prison
https://ewn.co.za/2023/09/06/kutama-fire-inside-the-torching-of-limpopo-s-maximum-security-prison
Americas
Are Ecuador’s Army, Police, and Prisons Beyond Reform?
https://insightcrime.org/news/ecuador-army-police-prisons-beyond-reform/
US - Florida’s ‘Two-Strikes’ Law Put Him in Prison for Life. Even His Victim Said It Was Too Harsh.
Asia
India - Denied basic facilities, women prisoners impacted far worse than men: SC panel on prison reforms
India - Is the Proposed Overhaul of the Criminal Justice System Decolonising or Recolonising the Law?
Europe
England and Wales - Report details life behind bars in Chelmsford Prison
https://www.yellowad.co.uk/report-details-life-behind-bars-in-chelmsford-prison/
England and Wales - Investigation launched after Shropshire prisoner died in custody
Turkey - Complaints of intolerable prison conditions surface from Edirne L-Type prison
News 5 September
Americas
Belize - Prison inmates drive road safety effort: Collaborative project with Ministry of Infrastructure & Kolbe Foundation
Ecuador’s prisons are increasingly violent
https://www.ruetir.com/2023/09/ecuadors-prisons-are-increasingly-violent/
US - Nitrogen Gas Executions Could Go Horribly Wrong. Here's Why
https://www.newsweek.com/nitrogen-gas-executions-could-horribly-wrong-1824353
US - Re-Entry One works to lower Florida’s reincarceration rate
https://www.newpelican.com/articles/re-entry-one-works-to-lower-floridas-reincarceration-rate/
Asia
Philippines - Lawmaker seeks reforms in PH correctional facilities
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1209185
Europe
England and Wales - Concerns raised over staffing levels at HMP Berwyn
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23756660.concerns-raised-staffing-levels-hmp-berwyn/
England and Wales - How I turned prisoners’ misery into reading pleasure: the brilliant story of Bang Up Books
England and Wales - HMP Lincoln officer didn't carry out welfare checks on prisoner who killed himself
https://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/news/local-news/hmp-lincoln-officer-didnt-carry-8726303
Germany refuses to extradite man to UK over concerns about British jail conditions
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Ban detention for under-16s, justice inquiry tells govt
Northern Mariana Islands - Civil Rights committee examines health care for incarcerated people on Saipan
News 2- 4 September 2023
Prison architecture: Treading the fine line between the need for confinement and the ethics of freedom
Americas
Combating recidivism and promoting reintegration: Brazil’s experiment with prisons without guards
https://www.equaltimes.org/combating-recidivism-and-promoting
Canada - Prison Amazon accounts keep federal inmates stuck in the 1990s
Ecuador: Inmates in prison takeover free 57 hostages after 24-hour standoff
US - Prison Labour and Cambodian Supply Chains
https://impactpolicies.org/news/330/prison-labour-and-cambodian-supply-chains
US - I Worked in Federal Prison Sweatshops for 23 Cents an Hour
https://theintercept.com/2023/09/04/prison-labor-exploitation-america/
US (California) - Ending the Golden State Era of Solitary Confinement
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/09/02/california-new-york-prisons-solitary
US - ‘Astonishingly cruel’: Alabama seeks to test execution method on death row ‘guinea pig’
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/02/alabama-execution-nitrogen-kenneth-smith
Asia
Bangladesh - Prisons infrastructure creaking under weight of imprisoned population
Nepal - Custodial deaths go on as perpetrators are left unpunished
Europe
England and Wales - Number of offenders with indefinite sentences recalled to prison soars
England and Wales - UN highlights ‘psychological harm’ to UK man jailed since 2012 for phone theft
England and Wales - Concern over violence at HMP Berwyn after 'inmate influx'
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23756524.concern-violence-hmp-berwyn-inmate-influx/
Oceania
Australia - The blueprint to end Victoria’s ‘pipeline’ of Aboriginal kids into the justice system
News 1 September
Africa
Seychelles Prison Services transitioning to Seychelles Correctional Services in new strategic plan
South Africa - Prisoners were tortured at Leeuwkop prison, court finds
https://www.groundup.org.za/article/torture-case/
Americas
Ecuador prison violence: Dozens of guards taken hostage
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-66679911
US - Thousands of California inmates are sentenced to die in prison. Should some get to seek parole?
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article278461069.html
US - New Colorado laws improve communication services in prison, access to court proceedings
US - Florida uses unpaid prison labor to prepare for Hurricane Idalia
US - ACLU files wrongful death lawsuits over Alaska prison suicides
US - Oklahoma inches closer to eliminating private prisons
Asia
Cambodia - Nearly 400 inmates seek pardons, commutations
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501352676/nearly-400-inmates-seek-pardons-commutations/
Israel – Prisons to release 120 inmates to alleviate overcrowding
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-757063
Pakistan - Home secretary for gender sensitive training of jail staff
https://www.nation.com.pk/01-Sep-2023/home-secretary-for-gender-sensitive-training-of-jail-staff
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Woodhill: Call for emergency measures at 'unsafe' prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-66675838
England and Wales - Whitemoor prison review planned after March prisoner’s death
Oceania
New Zealand - Judge slams lack of allocated mental health beds for Whangārei courts
Papua New Guinea - PNG capital’s Bomana jail full – refusing any new prisoners
https://asiapacificreport.nz/2023/09/01/png-capitals-bomana-jail-full-refusing-any-new-prisoners/
News 31 August
Americas
Canada - Inmates in Her Majesty's Penitentiary say they feel hopeless, alone and increasingly unwell
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/her-majestys-penitentiary-1.6951813
US - California debates solitary confinement in local jails — and whether it’s really possible to end it
US - Dying and disabled Illinois prisoners kept behind bars, despite new medical release law
https://www.injusticewatch.org/news/prisons-and-jails/2023/illinois-medical-release-law-failing/
Asia
UN expresses concern over continued hunger strike at Bahrain prison
India - Supreme Court panel suggests suicide-resistant barracks in prison to curb deaths
Europe
England and Wales - UN torture expert urges government to review 'mess' left by indefinite prison sentences
England and Wales - Winchester Prison: Decaying buildings undermine jail's progress, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-66658591
England and Wales - Offenders refusing to attend sentencing will spend longer in prison
England and Wales - HMP Leeds: Long cell 'lock-ups' blamed as Armley prison now has second highest suicide rate in country
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/hmp-leeds-lengthy-cell-lock-104500234.html
England and Wales - North Sea Camp open prison criticised over 'cramped' cells
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lincolnshire-66668692
Greece: Anti-Torture Panel Decries Korydallos Prison Hospital Conditions
https://www.miragenews.com/greece-anti-torture-panel-decries-korydallos-1075492/
Scotland - Prisoner death rate more than trebled in a decade, report reveals
Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service statement on prisoner escort services
Oceania
Australia - Suicide of Indigenous man Mr Blanket in WA prison was due to lack of safe cells, coroner finds
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-31/mr-blanket-coronial-inquest-findings-acacia-prison/102798446
News 30 August
Americas
Canada - High number of prison breaks from federal healing lodges: Report
https://torontosun.com/news/national/high-number-of-prison-breaks-from-federal-healing-lodges-report
US - Florida evacuates 4,000 prisoners from 35 facilities statewide ahead of hurricane
Norway Aids in Humanizing U.S. Prison Systems
https://www.miragenews.com/norway-aids-in-humanizing-us-prison-systems-1074204/
Asia
India - SC seeks views of Centre, states on prison reforms report in three weeks
Malaysia - First-time non-serious offenders should not be sent to prison
Europe
England and Wales - Government spends millions on overspill prison cells in police stations, exclusive data reveals
England and Wales - Housing inmates in police cells ‘predictable mess’, says former head of prison service
England and Wales - Leeds charity's success at giving prisoners a chance
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-66651855
Scotland - Young prisoner dies in custody three days after being remanded by Aberdeen sheriff
https://www.aberdeenlive.news/news/aberdeen-news/young-prisoner-dies-just-three-8712018
News 25 – 29 August
Americas
Canada - CCLA Calls For Immediate Reforms To Prison Strip Searches In Ontario, Implementation Of Body Scanners As Alternative
US - ‘Like being inside an oven’: Extreme weather batters imprisoned people
US - Report Spotlights Horrific Conditions in Solitary Confinement in Alabama Prisons
US - Missouri prisons ban friends and family from sending books to prisoners
US - Covid Outbreak Prompts Restrictions At Hawaii’s Largest Prison
https://www.civilbeat.org/beat/covid-outbreak-prompts-restrictions-at-hawaiis-largest-prison/
Asia
‘Slow murder’: Hundreds of prisoners stage Bahrain’s largest hunger strike
India - PIL in HC stokes a debate on prison inmates’ right to conjugal visits
India - Tihar Jail’s novel scheme to generate employment within prison system
Europe
Risk of homelessness after prison release and recidivism in Denmark: a nationwide, register-based cohort study
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(23)00152-4/fulltext
England and Wales - Prisons are at breaking point
https://www.newstatesman.com/comment/2023/08/prisons-breaking-point
England and Wales - 'Life means life': Government to expand whole-life prison sentences for most depraved killers
https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/government-expand-whole-life-order-prison-sentences/
England and Wales - Prison and probation staffing dangerously low after botched privatisation
England and Wales - HMP Gartree: Decision over new prison delayed again
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-66628036
England and Wales - Urgent action to improve HMP Bristol
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/urgent-action-to-improve-hmp-bristol
Guernsey - New cookery course offered to prison inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce4vjxnqy50o
Ireland - €300,000 to be spent on assessing prisoners' mental health
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41214478.html
Turkey - 9,000 inmates who benefited from COVID-19 release have failed to return to prison
Oceania
Australia - Mothers in prison embrace a parenting program to strengthen bonds with separated children
Australia - Queensland government repeatedly ignored warnings two years ago of youth prison overcrowding
Australia - Prison Service defends lockdowns as Tasmanian inmate's mum complains of 'inhumane treatment' at remand centre
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-29/tas-remand-centre-locked-down-for-five-days-inmate/102783504
News 24 August
Africa
Gambia - Mile II Central Prisons Has Digital Records And Clinic Facilities As Part Of Ongoing Reforms
Ghana - Youth form 85% of prison inmates - Ages range between 12-35
South Africa: Analysis - the Troubled History of Mangaung Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202308240021.html
Asia
China - Legal aid measures due to take effect
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202308/23/WS64e5f07ea31035260b81dd32.html
India - Draft report on prison reforms: House panel suggests transfer of prisoners from congested jails
India - Calcutta High Court flags concerns over failure to implement prison reforms despite Supreme Court directive of 1978
Philippines - DOJ: Prisoners’ food budget still at P70 in 2024
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/08/24/2290908/doj-prisoners-food-budget-still-p70-2024
Europe
Scotland - Understanding women’s experience of justice
https://www.gov.scot/news/understanding-womens-experience-of-justice/
Number of prisoners declines under new law, but overcrowding persists in Turkish prisons
Oceania
Australia - Sydney woman and former prisoner designing 'survival guide' for inmates to help navigate system
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-24/sydney-woman-designs-online-tool-female-prisoners/102767066
News 23 August
Africa
CJ Koome urges Kenyans to embrace alternative justice processes
https://www.kbc.co.ke/cj-koome-urges-kenyans-to-embrace-alternative-justice-processes/
Americas
Brazil Has The Third Largest Female Prison Population In The World- Report
Canada - His brother died in an Ontario jail. Advocates say calls for reform to prevent such deaths are being ignored
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/inmate-suicide-toronto-jail-1.6943729
Ecuador should hold violent convicts on prison boats, says presidential hopeful Noboa
Inside El Salvador's mega-prison holding 12,000 alleged gangsters
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/video/inside-el-salvadors-mega-prison-015757206.html
US - Walmart probes use of prison labour in Cambodia
US - The First Step Act: Ending Mass Incarceration in Federal Prisons
US - Oregon women's prison report raises red flags; acting director, governor respond
Asia
India - Prolonged Incarceration Of Undertrial Prisoners Violates Constitutional Principles Of Dignity & Liberty: SC Releases Nigerian Citizen In Jail For 9 Years
Lebanon: Harrowing Prison Conditions
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/08/23/lebanon-harrowing-prison-conditions
Pakistan - Swift implementation of juvenile justice act demanded
https://www.dawn.com/news/1771618/swift-implementation-of-juvenile-justice-act-demanded
Sri Lanka - Disease hit Galle prison to keep inmates out of Courts
Europe
England and Wales - Portland YOI given 'performance of concern' rating in latest report
https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/dorset/news/portland-yoi-performance-of-concern-rating/
Oceania
Australia (Queensland) - Human rights fury over bid to amend Youth Justice Act
https://au.news.yahoo.com/human-rights-fury-over-bid-085942650.html
News 19-22 August
Americas
US - As the death toll in stifling Texas prisons climbs, congressional Democrats ask for investigation
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/08/21/texas-prison-heat-deaths/
US - New York is building the world’s tallest jail in Chinatown. Can anyone stop it?
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/aug/21/new-york-jail-chinatown-rikers-island
US - Inside a ‘Nightmare’ Lockdown at a Wisconsin Prison
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/19/us/wisconsin-prison-lockdown.html
Asia
Bahrain: Hundreds of prisoners on hunger strike over inhumane living conditions
Hong Kong heatwave prompts calls for cooler prisons, but lawmakers draw line at air conditioning for inmates
India - State prison dept hikes wages of inmates
India - Prison capacity to be ramped up by 6,000 in Maharashtra
Iran Executes Eight More Over Past 72 Hours In Prison 'Killing Fields'
https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-executes-8-72-ours-prison-amnesty-killing-fields/32557674.html
Europe
Recall rules to be eased on indefinite jail sentences in England and Wales
England and Wales - Anger as suspects locked up in limbo for up to three years as their lives fall apart
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/anger-suspects-locked-up-limbo-30734460
Pain-inducing restraints to be banned in England and Wales children’s prisons
Ireland - Alternatives to short prison sentences
https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2023/08/22/alternatives-to-short-prison-sentences/
Ireland - Prison service to retain old Cork Prison site due to overcrowding
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41209651.html
Poland fills prisons with white-collar crime suspects
https://www.ft.com/content/445140ab-fd7d-4433-b7ad-96959e739e7f
News 18 August
Africa
South Africa - More fatalities at Kutama Sinthumule prison, says Lamola
Americas
US - Prison Healthcare Means Not Knowing What’s Slowly Destroying My Body
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/08/18/prison-mystery-illness-wellpath-appointment-delays
US - Oregon fails to support women in prison, report finds
https://www.opb.org/article/2023/08/17/coffee-creek-oregon-womens-prison-report-calls-for-changes/
US - Suicide Watch Incidents in Louisiana Prisons Spike by Nearly a Third on Extreme Heat Days, a New Study Finds
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/18082023/louisiana-prisons-heat-suicide-study/
Asia
India’s supreme court issues handbook against use of archaic terms for women
India - Prison department prepares inmates’ profile for premature release
Europe
England and Wales - Woodhill Prison looks to tackle staff shortages
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-66437913
England and Wales - Fry and Waal support prison reading research project
https://www.thebookseller.com/news/fry-and-waal-support-prison-reading-research-project
England and Wales - HMP Wakefield and New Hall prison's performance rating has worsened since Covid
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/hmp-wakefield-hall-prisons-performance-102958663.html
Ireland - Restorative justice plan likely to leave ‘significant gaps’
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/restorative-justice-plan-likely-to-leave-significant-gaps
Welsh Affairs Committee launch follow up inquiry to examine Prisons in Wales
News 17 August
Africa
South Africa - Thousands of non-violent offenders due for early release from prison
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreaks continued in Sask. jails after public disclosures ceased: documents
The Timebomb That Exploded Twice: Behind The Massacres in Honduras' Women's Prison
https://insightcrime.org/investigations/institutions-gangs-violence-honduras-women-prison/
US - This Therapy Helps Formerly Incarcerated People Return to Society
US - Inmates at California women's prison sue federal government over sexual abuse
US - Ohio death row inmates spend 21 years waiting for execution date
https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/08/16/ohio-death-row-inmates-spend-21-years-waiting-execution-date/
Asia
India - Win for transparency: Parliamentary committee recommends mandatory annual reports for high courts
UAE - Dubai prisoners hope cooking classes will offer second chance at life
Europe
Ireland - Sharp increase in number of very short prison terms being imposed by judges
Ireland - Quarter of prisoners fail or refuse to take drugs test
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41206960.html
News 16 August
Africa
Nigeria - ‘Correctional Service Reforms Will Improve Penal Administration’
https://leadership.ng/correctional-service-reforms-will-improve-penal-administration/
Americas
US - Hearing begins over incarcerated youths being held at Louisiana’s maximum-security prison
https://apnews.com/article/louisiana-angola-youth-prison-bb370b514e95552e19575e6eb83405e7
US - Study: S.C. prisons have the U.S.’s third-highest population of convicted children
Asia
New IPC, CrPC bill: Is India's planned criminal law reform a game-changer?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-66495428
India - Here's How Maharashtra Govt Plans To Improve Conditions In Jails
Europe
England and Wales - 'Significant deterioration' at HMP Lowdham Grange with rising violence and self-harm after operator change
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/nottingham-news/hmp-lowdham-grange-unsafe-rising-8679218
England and Wales - 'Remarkably safe' Aylesbury Vale prison must improve education services following inspection
Ukrainian prisoners of war say they were tortured at Russian prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-66453692
News 9 – 15 August
Africa
South Africa - Pay up or dry up: Johannesburg disconnects water at Leeuwkop Prison for R9.8 million debt
Americas
Brazil - Senate committee approves DNA collection of prison inmates
https://brazilian.report/liveblog/politics-insider/2023/08/10/prison-inmates-dna-collection/
Canada - 'Not much has changed': Sudbury, Ont. advocates decry lack of support services in northern Ontario jails
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/sudbury-prisoners-justice-day-supports-2023-1.6931649
Ecuador's government sending troops and police to take control of prison zone
US - What the New Wave of Prison Art Tells Us About Incarceration Today
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/08/12/prison-art-exhibit-gallery-incarceration
US - Texas claims spike in prison deaths isn't heat-related. Study says that can’t be true.
US - Hawaii Inmates Are Kept Behind Bars To Complete Programs They Can’t Get Into
Asia
Bahrain prisoners on hunger strike demanding better conditions
India - I-Day: Delhi Prisons DG announces remission for 1,300 convicts, 1,200 CCTV cameras for enhanced security
Israel - Prisons in crisis with overcrowding, abject conditions - public defender
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-754183
National forum discusses abolishing death penalty in Jordan
https://en.royanews.tv/news/43703/2023-08-10
Surge in Executions As Singapore Clears ‘Backlog’ of Death Row Dealers
https://www.vice.com/en/article/xgwvqd/singapore-drug-executions
Sri Lanka - New mechanism to reduce burden of prisons on Treasury
Europe
England and Wales - Kirkham prison is performing worse than it did before the pandemic, according to Ministry of Justice figures
Ireland - Prisoner critical after attack in Mountjoy Prison, another dies by suicide
Italy’s justice minister visits prison where 2 inmates died as advocates warn of summertime suicides
Scotland - Innovative project allows play time for children and parents within prison walls
Oceania
Australia - Potentially hundreds of conversations live-streamed from bugged Risdon Prison room, Tasmanian government reveals
Australia - Bail reforms set to keep more Victorians out of jail
https://au.sports.yahoo.com/bail-reforms-set-keep-more-222432589.html
New Zealand - Justice system bogged down in 'delays of two to three years' for trials
News 8 August
Americas
Canadian prisons need international oversight to prevent human rights violations
Asia
How Does Pakistan’s Prison System Work? | TLDR
https://www.dawn.com/news/1768899/how-does-pakistans-prison-system-work-tldr-dawn-news-english
Europe
England and Wales - Prison and probation staffing dangerously low
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66431061
England and Wales - ‘I never knew what horrors were happening in there’: the show giving Woodhill prisoners’ bereaved families a voice
https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2023/aug/07/woodhill-prison-deaths
Ireland - Obstetrician will lead access to specialist women’s health in Limerick Prison
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41199934.html
Oceania
Australia - Inmates asked to ramp up home building for First Nations communities in New South Wales
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-08/inmates-build-more-homes-nsw-indigenous-communities/102696502
Australia - Custodial Services report finds Broome Prison offers 'no meaningful rehabilitation'
News 4 – 7 August
Africa
Kenyan prisons are choking with young, petty offenders
Nigeria - 4,204 persons sent to prison in four months – Report
https://punchng.com/4204-persons-sent-to-prison-in-four-months-report/
‘Fit for pigs’: Conditions in overcrowded Zimbabwe prisons choke inmates
Americas
British Virgin Islands - Too many in prison on remand, says Governor
https://bvinews.com/too-many-in-prison-on-remand-says-governor/
Ecuador prison staff arrested over drugs, weapons
https://www.postcourier.com.pg/ecuador-prison-staff-arrested-over-drugs-weapons/
St Vincent & the Grenadines - Murder convicts dominate the prison population
https://www.searchlight.vc/news/2023/08/04/murder-convicts-dominate-prison-population/
US - How 600-plus California inmates got more than 11,000 years cut off their prison sentences
US - New report: Virginia's prison population is growing older
https://www.wvtf.org/news/2023-08-04/new-report-virginias-prison-population-is-growing-older
US - Florida’s prisons face dual crisis: inmate boom and scorching heat wave
https://thecapitolist.com/floridas-prisons-face-dual-crisis-inmate-boom-and-scorching-heat-wave/
US - Geriatric Jailbirds: Florida's Elderly Inmate Population Has Skyrocketed
https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/floridas-elderly-prison-population-has-skyrocketed-17543669
Asia
Bangladesh - Prison reform is the need of the hour
https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/editorial/news/prison-reform-the-need-the-hour-3387876
As Korea moves to institute life sentences without parole, experts voice doubts over efficacy
https://english.hani.co.kr/arti/english_edition/e_national/1103343.html
Chaos behind Nepal’s prison bars
https://asianews.network/chaos-behind-nepals-prison-bars/
Nepal - Inmates set fire to jail in Jhapa
https://english.khabarhub.com/2023/04/313249/
Philippines - House bill seeks creation of Department of Corrections and Jail Management
As Singapore Hangs More Drug Offenders, Some Worry Cases Aren’t Always Clear-Cut
https://time.com/6301702/singapore-death-penalty-drug-cases/
Europe
England and Wales - Wrongfully convicted people will no longer have to pay living costs for time served in prison
Three-quarters of prisons in England and Wales in appalling conditions as overcrowding fears grow
‘I’ve watched people just fall apart’: inside the nightmare world of English and Welsh jails
Prison lawyers warn more will quit if legal aid fees not raised in England and Wales
England and Wales - HMP Foston Hall is transforming prison grounds and lives with blooming walled gardens
England and Wales - HMP Maidstone: Foreign prisoners held beyond sentence release dates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-66386801
France’s overcrowded prison population reaches all-time high – for months on end
Irish Prison Service to be established as a statutory State body
Are Scotland's prisons fit for purpose?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-66121355
Scotland - Perth prisoners hope to build new futures after constructing entire house inside jail
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/perth-kinross/4609882/perth-prison-construction-skills-academy/
News 3 August
Africa
South Africa - Correctional services dept capable of taking over Mangaung prison from G4S
Americas
Inside Brazil's 'subhuman prisons' where families camp outside to bring inmates food
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/world-news/inside-brazils-subhuman-prisons-families-30608557
US - Sexual Abuse in Women’s Federal Prison Facilities Reviewed by Justice Department Teams
https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/sexual-abuse-in-womens-prisons-review/
US - Florida inmates and prison officials grapple with ‘oppressive’ heat
US - Why the doctors who treat California's prison inmates are threatening to go on strike
US (California) - San Quentin State Prison inmates taught filmmaking under Hollywood producer-backed scheme
Asia
Singapore executes fifth prisoner this year for drug trafficking
Sri Lanka - Prison overcrowding can lead to serious consequences
https://www.ft.lk/ft_view__editorial/Prison-overcrowding-can-lead-to-seriousconsequences/58-751318
Europe
England and Wales - Five inmates die after taking spice laced with fentanyl as killer drug is rife in prisons, report reveals
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/23314363/five-inmates-die-spice-fentanyl-hmp-the-mount/
Human Rights Association publishes yearly report about the situation in Turkish prisons
News 2 August
Africa
South Africa - Mangaung prison firm fights to keep G4S contract operational
Americas
Firearms, Disappearances, Prison Overcrowding: Brazil’s Problems Are Getting Worse
https://insightcrime.org/news/firearms-disappearances-prison-overcrowding-brazil-getting-worse/
Hell at the gates of Litoral, the most dangerous prison in Ecuador
Asia
Hong Kong - Prison service lowers recruitment fitness standards
Sri Lanka - Grave concern at prisons as capacity exceeds by 200%
Europe
England and Wales - Youth jail shut down over safety fears to be turned into men’s prison
England and Wales - The tragedy of Rianna and baby Aisha: why a teenager gave birth all alone in a prison cell
Ireland - Bike restoration project gets boost from Men’s Shed in Mountjoy Prison
Northern Ireland - Ulster GAA teams up with Maghaberry Prison in rehab initiative
Scotland prisons: 895 assaults on staff by inmates in three years
Oceania
Australia - More than 50 cases discontinued in NT courts as 'raise the age' reform comes into effect
News 1 August 2023
Americas
US - "Cooked" Alive: Inmates Stew in Florida Prisons' Extreme Heat
Asia
Taiwan - Stricter open prison rules clear legislative floor
https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202307310024
Europe
England and Wales - Fix ‘endemic’ problems in youth custody, urges prisons watchdog
England and Wales - Thousands of criminals left prison 'unlawfully' over past decade, figures show
England and Wales - Shoplifters who commit repeat offences to face prison
French prison population hits all-time high; know why
https://www.firstpost.com/world/french-prison-population-hits-all-time-high-know-why-12942832.html
Prisoners in Portugal build 150 confessionals ahead of Pope's visit
Oceania
UN Calls Out New Zealand’s Youth Justice Record
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2308/S00011/un-calls-out-new-zealands-youth-justice-record.htm
New Zealand - Corrections condemned by Coroner over death of Christchurch prisoner Kodi Bennett
News 29 – 31 July
Africa
South Africa - Edwin Cameron | Our prisons are falling apart
Americas
Three Ways to Reduce the Number of Women in Prison in the Americas
https://www.wola.org/analysis/reduce-number-women-prison-americas/
Dominican Republic - Inauguration of mental health pavilion for inmates of La Victoria Jail
https://nationworldnews.com/inauguration-of-mental-health-pavilion-for-inmates-of-la-victoria-jail/
US - How Do Prisons in Other Countries Prepare Inmates for Life Outside?
US - “We’ve got hell coming”: Missourians in state prisons fear consequences of summertime heat
https://kcbeacon.org/stories/2023/07/28/missouri-prison-air-conditioning-2023-heat-wave/
US - Texas just raised the price of bottled water in prisons by 50% amid one of the state's most extreme heat waves yet
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/texas-just-raised-price-bottled-164632053.html
US - New report shows what is working well for Idaho’s prisoner reentry programs, and what isn’t
Asia
India - Madras High Court judge asks State to consider allowing conjugal visits in prisons for inmates
India - 66% of state prisons overcrowded by up to 250%; overall staff crunch at 26%
Malaysia - More skills training for prison inmates
https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2023/07/31/more-skills-training-for-prison-inmates
Europe
Vaccination in Prisons: Improving The Health Of Prison Populations and the Wider Community
England and Wales - ‘Serious failings’ contributed to baby’s death in 12-hour lone prison birth
England and Wales - I spent 10 years working as a prison officer. The impact of staff cuts and reduced funding has been devastating
England and Wales - 'Serious concern' over performance of Styal prison
https://www.knutsfordguardian.co.uk/news/23685613.serious-concern-performance-styal-prison/
Ireland – New Limerick Women’s Prison does away with ‘brutality and inhumanity’
Scotland - Prisoner dies at HMP Barlinnie as investigation launched
Oceania
New Zealand - Rolleston prisoners celebrate building 150 homes in programme
https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/07/31/rolleston-prisoners-celebrate-building-150-homes-in-programme/
News 28 July
Africa
Egyptian female inmates face privacy violations inside prison cells: rights group
https://www.newarab.com/news/egyptian-women-face-privacy-violations-prison-group
South Africa - G4S company will have one more shot to save Mangaung prison contract from govt termination
Americas
Riot in Brazilian Prison Leaves at Least Five Inmates Dead
El Salvador clears way for mass trials as crackdown on gangs ramps up
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/27/el-salvador-nayib-bukele-gangs-mass-trials
US - Bill to ban solitary confinement in federal prisons introduced in House
US - Abortion Denied: Reproductive Injustice Behind Bars
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/abortion-denied-reproductive-injustice/
US - Youth placed in adult prison have their lives cut shorter, study says
US - California’s free prison calls are repairing estranged relationships and aiding rehabilitation
US (Mississippi) - They needed mental health care treatment. They were thrown in jail without charges instead
Asia
Malaysia - Abolish ‘inhumane’ whipping sentence, urge 25 NGOs
Nepal - Govt to offer health insurance cover to 28,000 prisoners
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/govt-to-offer-health-insurance-to-28-000-prisoners/
Philippines - DOJ eyeing smaller prison facilities to focus on inmates’ reformation
Singapore executes a woman for first time in almost two decades
Europe
England and Wales - Government warned over prison overcrowding as suicides soar
England and Wales - Self-harming in women’s prisons reaches highest level on record
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/government-wales-england-labour-nacro-b2383158.html
England and Wales - Lowest number of prisons rated outstanding in six years, figures show
England and Wales - Social Enterprise rolls out entrepreneurship programme to North West prisons
Bristol Prison labelled one of most violent in England and Wales
https://planetradio.co.uk/metro/uk/news/bristol-prison-most-violent-england-wales/
Scottish Government urged to ensure new landlines in prison cells at HMP Grampian are tamper proof
2,572 children are in prison in Turkey
https://anfenglish.com/human-rights/2-572-children-are-in-prisons-in-turkey-68520
Oceania
Australia - Staff issues worsened by housing crisis creating 'volatile' Roebourne Regional Prison conditions, union says
Australia - Tasmanian prisons in need of reform
https://www.lafm.com.au/local-news/tasmanian-prisons-in-need-of-reform/
New Zealand - The home detention solution
https://www.rnz.co.nz/programmes/the-detail/story/2018900194/the-home-detention-solution
News 27 July
Africa
Nigeria - Prison inmates among best Open University students – Coordinator
https://punchng.com/prison-inmates-among-best-open-university-students-coordinator/
Nigeria - It’s time to decongest prisons and reform justice administration
https://guardian.ng/opinion/its-time-to-decongest-prisons-and-reform-justice-administration/
Americas
Ecuador recovering remains after prison violence, death toll unclear
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/ecuador-prison-violence-leaves-least-11-dead-2023-07-26/
Asia
Hong Kong's prison inmates suffer in 'unbearable' summer heatwave
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/hongkong-prisons-07262023132405.html
India - High prevalence of skin disease among prison inmates
India - UP prisoners to get skill trained before their release
https://www.canindia.com/up-prisoners-to-get-skill-trained-before-their-release-16/
Europe
Belgian prisons test faster drug detection method than using dogs
Ireland - Mountjoy Prison inmates put shoulders to the wheel to restore bikes for Ukrainian refugees
Oceania
Australia - Maximum security prisoners launch recycling scheme at Lotus Glen Correctional Facility
Australia - Inmate death prompts call for inquiry into NSW prison privatisation, health care
News 26 July
Africa
Ghana parliament votes to abolish death penalty
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-66308724
Americas
Canada - 'They're human too': Woman worries for brother's safety at Manitoba prison after deadly riot
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/stony-mountain-riot-inmate-safety-1.6915649
Remand and mentally ill population among major challenges at Dominica State Prison
Ecuador declares prison emergency as inmates killed and 100 guards taken hostage
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/25/ecuador-prison-state-of-emergency-hostages-killings
How gang warfare jumped from Ecuador’s prisons to the open street
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/26/americas/ecuador-drug-violence-crisis-explainer-intl/index.html
40% of incarcerated people in Mexico have not been tried, data shows
https://www.axios.com/2023/07/25/mexico-pretrial-detention-andres-manuel-lopez-obrador
US (California) - Bill To Move Convicts into Prisons Closer To Their Children Under Age 18 Signed By Gov. Newsom
US - Virginia state prisons under scrutiny after reports of guards brutalizing inmates
https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/07/26/virginia-state-prisons-inmates-torture-guards
Asia
India - In bail orders, courts should consider prisoners’ ability to pay: Supreme Court
India - Mental health infrastructure in Maharashtra’s prisons needs a revamp
Philippine prison gang fight leaves 1 dead, 9 injured
https://english.news.cn/20230726/ff00a57a3eef420cb7e284bd380348d7/c.html
Europe
England and Wales - East Sussex prison sees increasing rates of self-harm and assaults on staff
England and Wales - Concern raised after three deaths at HMP Liverpool in two weeks
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/concern-raised-after-three-deaths-27391142
Oceania
Corrections Minister Must Correct The Failings Of NZ Prisons
News 25 July
Americas
Over 90 prison guards are being held hostage by inmates across five different prisons in Ecuador
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/24/americas/ecuador-security-agents-prisons-intl-latam/index.html
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison service recruitment drive sees thousands lining highway
How desperate US prisoners try to escape deadly heat
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-66274629
US states consider harsh ‘war on drug’-era laws to combat fentanyl crisis
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jul/25/lawmakers-drug-laws-fentanyl-charges
40 years ago, the US started sending more and more kids to prison without hope of release, but today, it’s far more rare – what happened?
Asia
Singapore to execute first woman in nearly 20 years
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Astonishing failure’ at prison holding hundreds of sex offenders
Oceania
Australia - ‘They weren’t there when I needed them’: we asked former prisoners what happens when support services fail
New Zealand - Chief Ombudsman calls for halt of spit hoods on vulnerable prisoners
News 22 – 24 July
Africa
Kenya - State to rope in corporates in rehabilitation of inmates, says PS
Nigeria - From prison to correctional centre, what has changed?
https://guardian.ng/features/from-prison-to-correctional-centre-what-has-changed/
Americas
Brazil Has 91,000 People Using Electronic Ankle Monitors
Canada - A terminally ill federal inmate wants to be released so he can die outside of prison. He's been refused, so he's applying for MAID.
Six killed in gang clashes in Ecuador prison, officials targeted
Armed Incident Leaves Three Dead in Guatemala Prison
US - Long stays in pre-trial detention strain Philadelphia prisons
https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/07/21/philadelphia-prisons-pre-trial-detention
US - Drug Overdose Deaths in Missouri's Prison System Up 19%
https://www.governing.com/health/drug-overdoes-deaths-in-missouris-prison-system-up-19
US - Inmates are training to become Starbucks baristas while in N.J. prisons under new program
Asia
India - eMulakat makes it easy for foreign prisoners
https://punemirror.com/pune/others/emulakat-makes-it-easy-for-foreign-prisoners/cid1690055038.htm
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners like me are left homeless and sleeping in tents once we are released, how can we start again?
Debt advice service launches on Isle of Man for prisoners
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/news/debt-advice-service-launches-isle-man-prisoners
Malta - Law meant to deter drug use in breach of prisoners’ fundamental rights: court
Oceania
Australia - 'Premature' death of Indigenous inmate at Junee jail, Coroner calls for more doctors, healthcare workers
New Zealand - Setting prisoners up for failure
https://www.rnz.co.nz/programmes/the-detail/story/2018899389/setting-prisoners-up-for-failure
New Zealand - Rolleston Prison, Christchurch inmates put to work building new social housing
News 21 July
Africa
South Africa - More than 200 prison escapes over last five years
Americas
US - Youth In Prisons: Solitary Confinement, Excessive Heat, No Exercise or Educational Activities
US - Texas prisoners say their food is melting in front of them as they face horrifying heat in prisons with no AC
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/texas-prisoners-food-melting-front-184751226.html
US - NYC Comptroller Report Finds Number of NYC Prison Detainees is on The Rise
Asia
Iranian female prisoners tell of filmed strip searches
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-66258415
Nearly 5,000 Executions In Iran Since 2013
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202307202287
Europe
Isle of Man - Actions to improve the prison are under way
https://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/actions-to-improve-the-prison-are-under-way-627682
Calls to review segregation systems in Scottish prisons amid claims they do 'more harm than good'
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/calls-review-segregation-systems-scottish-30518261
Scotland - Fatal accident inquiry into prison deaths to focus on drugs in jails
Scotland's courts experiencing 'major disruption' due to prisoner transfer problems
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/scotlands-courts-experiencing-major-disruption-035500438.html
Oceania
New Zealand - National pressures government to abandon plan for fewer prison inmates
News 20 July
Africa
Namibia - Court orders Govt to change prisons law
https://www.namibian.com.na/court-orders-govt-to-change-prisons-law/
Nigeria - Why I’m acquiring certificates in prison, by life jail inmate
https://thenationonlineng.net/why-im-acquiring-certificates-in-prison-by-life-jail-inmate/
Americas
Canada - 36% of inmates at Kitchener women's prison are Indigenous — advocate says education could curb disparities
US (Minnesota) - Rate of homelessness drops among newly released inmates, DOC says
Europe
The alarming Americanisation of British prisons
https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/ideas/law/62133/the-alarming-americanisation-of-british-prisons
Guernsey prisoners 'released with nowhere to live'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crglkzkl8vno
Landline phones to be installed in Scottish prison cells
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-66251887
Review of Swedish criminal code may lead to triple the cell space
News 19 July
Mandela’s legacy thrives as today's blueprint for prisoners’ rights
https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/07/1138822
Americas
Canada - 'We could've lost several lives': Inmate killed, seven hospitalized during Manitoba prison riot
Honduras wants to build West's only island prison colony and lock gangsters inside
US - Children held at former Death Row prison in 133F heat with no AC and limited water in Louisiana
https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/angola-prison-children-heat-louisiana-b2377577.html
US - Illinois is the first state to eliminate cash bail in its prison system
US - South Carolina prison unit that practices 'restorative justice' has seen fewer violent incidents, study says
Europe
England and Wales - Justice Secretary: Places in prison remain under ‘intense pressure’
England and Wales - Prison educators call for government clarity on contracts, pay and pensions
Oceania
Australia - Independent investigation to probe what NSW prison officials knew of sexual abuse of inmates
New Zealand - Youth crime crackdown: Children’s Commissioner ‘frustrated’ at Government plans for more youth ‘prison-like facilities’
Samoa prisons could use drones to monitor inmates
News 18 July
Africa
Kenya - Over 23,000 inmates freed as 5,000 cases under review in prisons decongestion plan
Tanzania announces measures to address congestion in prisons
https://english.news.cn/africa/20230718/ef4bb3f46ad84ef3b4f4484ff9d4b40a/c.html
Americas
U of S research shows therapy dogs can build a stronger social support network in Canada’s prisons
Trinidad & Tobago - Judge slams delay by Mercy Committee, prisons
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/07/17/judge-slams-delay-by-mercy-committee-prisons/
US - 5,900 Texans have died in custody since 2016, data shows
https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/5900-texans-have-died-in-custody-since-2016-data-shows/
Europe
England and Wales - Basic housing to keep offenders off streets and cut crime
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/basic-housing-to-keep-offenders-off-streets-and-cut-crime
England and Wales - Cookham Wood: 'Shocking' violence at youth prison, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-66228950
Oceania
New Zealand - Crime And Reoffending Directly Tackled With NZ’s First Community-led Mentor Programme For Prison Leavers
New Zealand - Have prisons become default holding pens for unaddressed mental health issues?
New Zealand - Govt taking further steps to strengthen youth justice system
News 15 – 17 July
Alarming rise of women in prison must be addressed, rights summit told
Africa
Kenya - Former death row inmate speaks on life after prison
Tanzania - Commission pokes holes in criminal justice system
https://dailynews.co.tz/commission-pokes-holes-in-criminal-justice-system/
Americas
El Salvador’s mega-prisons as an electoral promise in Colombia
Beyond Prison Walls: Honduran Military Intervention On Gang Violence
https://theowp.org/reports/beyond-prison-walls-honduran-military-intervention-on-gang-violence/
US - While Doing Time in a California Prison, I Was Given a Hysterectomy Without My Consent
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/07/14/california-prison-reproductive-rights-hysterectomy
US - Most Oklahoma jails failed Health Department inspections in 2022
US - Bill Aims to Address Access to Feminine Hygiene Products in Ohio Prisons
Asia
India - 80 percent ‘unnatural deaths’ among prisoners are suicides, government needs to pay heed to NHRC’s advisory on mental health of prisoners
India - More time allowed for interaction of prisoners with kin, friends, lawyers
Malaysia - Prisons director: OBB programme to ease congested cells, encourage better recovery of inmates
Pakistan - No doctor for inmates in 10 Balochistan prisons
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2426566/no-doctor-for-inmates-in-10-balochistan-prisons
Philippines - BJMP says jail congestion rate down to 358 percent
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/07/15/23/bjmp-says-jail-congestion-rate-down-to-358-percent
Europe
England and Wales - Projected surge in female prison population is 'incredibly worrying', says charity
England and Wales - HMP Norwich gets extra staff to tackle 'alarming violence'
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/23646924.hmp-norwich-gets-extra-staff-tackle-alarming-violence/
Irish prisoners make 1,000 complaints of alleged assault, excessive force and racial abuse
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prisoners-make-1000-complaints-30478734
Oceania
New Zealand - The Corrections Minister's concerned about an increase in the number of prisoners awaiting trial or sentencing -- which National's blaming on court system backlogs
https://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/article.aspx?id=380618&fm=newsmain%2Cnrhl
News 14 July
Prisons from Hong Kong to Chennai to Georgia are setting up biometric surveillance
Americas
Canada - Former Ontario inmates say complaints system is broken after docs reveal medical concerns, abuse allegations
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/inmate-complaints-1.6896550
El Salvador's secretive mega-jail
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-81749d7c-d0a0-48d0-bb11-eaab6f1e6556
DataInSights: Are Pretrial Detentions Fueling Organized Crime in Paraguay?
US - COVID changed our prison systems — we must not go back
US - Study Conducted by Prison Policy Initiative Finds ‘Releasing People Pretrial Doesn’t Harm Public Safety’
US - 24% Fewer Persons Were in Federal Prison for Drug Offenses in 2018 Than in 2013
https://www.ojp.gov/news/news-release/24-fewer-persons-federal-prison-drug-offenses-2018-2013
US - Ex-officers at federal women's prison in California plead guilty to multiple sex abuse counts
US - Texas prisons to phase out physical mail to reduce contraband despite advocate protests
https://www.texasstandard.org/stories/texas-prisons-tdcj-physical-digital-mail-contraband-phase-out/
Asia
India - Prisons overcrowded, but steps on to decongest them: Karnataka Home Minister
Europe
Ten prison guards accused of torturing Tunisian prisoner in Italy
Latvia might abolish conditional prison sentences
Scotland - Inspectors call for 'Victorian prison' to be replaced
https://news.stv.tv/west-central/hmp-greenock-inspectors-call-for-victorian-prison-to-be-replaced
Scotland - Dumfries Prison officially opens new wellbeing garden
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/dumfries-prison-officially-opens-new-30450466
Oceania
Vanuatu high risk prison to close after being deemed unfit for inmates
News 13 July
Africa
Ghana moves to abolish death penalty as parliament advances bill for 2nd, 3rd reading
Namibia - 6 000 inmates earn qualifications
https://neweralive.na/posts/6-000-inmates-earn-qualifications
Women top drug offence arrests in Zimbabwe- report
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/women-top-drug-offence-arrests-in-zimbabwe-report/
Americas
Canada - Over-representation of Indigenous persons in adult provincial custody, 2019/2020 and 2020/2021
https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/85-002-x/2023001/article/00004-eng.htm
US - The harrowing reality of life in solitary confinement
US – Opinion: New data show a dire forecast about incarceration rates didn’t come true
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/07/12/good-news-black-incarceration-rate-declines/
US - After new deaths of prisoners in NYC prisons, the clamor grows to close Rikers and promote alternative prison plans
Asia
Pakistan: Families suffer as hundreds jailed far from home
https://www.dw.com/en/pakistan-families-suffer-as-hundreds-jailed-far-from-home/a-66203526
Europe
England and Wales - Legal aid cuts denying vulnerable women access to justice, says thinktank
England and Wales - Wormwood Scrubs ‘unsuitable for the 21st century’, MP claims
https://www.swlondoner.co.uk/news/12072023-wormwood-scrubs-unsuitable-for-the-21st-century-mp-claims
Scotland - History of head injury in four out of five Polmont young offenders
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/head-injury-four-out-of-five-polmont-young-offenders-7w02f7h32
Thousands of Ukraine civilians are being held in Russian prisons. Russia plans to build many more
News 12 July
Africa
It’s time for Ghana to enshrine its respect for right to life – by abolishing death penalty
Psychological rehabilitation of prisoners to strengthen social cohesion and reconciliation in Rwanda
Americas
Murders Are Down 92% In El Salvador After Controversial Mass Incarceration Push
Asia
Dubai Police train prison inmates in culinary arts
https://www.arabianbusiness.com/culture-society/dubai-police-train-prison-inmates-in-culinary-arts
Japan - Laundry soap made by prison labor selling for triple the price
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14954830
Europe
England and Wales - Stun grenades and police dogs must be banned from children’s prisons, ministers warned
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/stun-grenades-police-dogs-must-30440719
Ireland - 40% of people released from prison re-offend within one year
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41181076.html
Scotland - Family of woman who took own life in prison could be forced to withdraw from FAI
Spain - An alarming state of mental health in prisons
https://codelist.biz/2023/07/12/an-alarming-state-of-mental-health-in-prisons/
News 11 July
Africa
Ghana - Women at Kumasi Central Prisons appeal for support
https://myjoyonline.com/women-at-kumasi-central-prisons-appeal-for-support
Delays keep South Africa’s courts in waiting
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/delays-keep-south-africas-courts-in-waiting-10-july-2023/
Americas
US - Dem bill in California would mandate judges to consider race when doling out prison sentences
US - New York City’s Rikers Island jail complex could see federal takeover
Europe
Portugal - Prison bosses request ‘excuse of responsibility’
https://www.portugalresident.com/prison-bosses-request-excuse-of-responsibility/
Oceania
Australia - WA government illegally held three teenage detainees in prolonged lockdowns, court rules
Australia - ACT Government announces Independent Review into over-representation of First Nations prisoners
News 8 – 10 July
Africa
Ghana government spends GH¢1.80 to feed each prison inmate – Director-General
Ghana: Need for New Prison Facilities Nationwide
https://allafrica.com/stories/202307070678.html
Kenya - MPs want death sentences for capital offenders replaced with life imprisonment
Liberia: As Funding For Prisons Drops 85 Percent Under Weah Government Endless Pre-Trial Detentions Are Devastating Lives
Uganda - ‘HIV in prisons is a ticking time bomb’
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-hiv-in-prisons-is-a-ticking-time-bomb--4297698
Americas
Brazil’s ‘sisters-in-law’ strike gold opening prison doors on TikTok
Ecuador prison tensions soar as four inmates found ‘hanged’
US - Heat wave in US turns Texas prisons into 'ovens'
Asia
In India, prisoners 5 times more at risk of TB: Study
India - Maharashtra Prisons Department Initiates Reforms To Improve Inmate Conditions
Weak laws in Laos mean death-row inmates won’t face execution anytime soon
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/death-row-inmates-07072023161103.html
Nepal - Procedure drafted for engaging prisoners
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/procedure-drafted-for-engaging-prisoners
Taiwan - Justice ministry pushes for bill to toughen transfers to minimum security prisons
https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202307100006
Europe
Belgium unveils innovative 'Detention House' in move to improve prison conditions
England and Wales - UK employers pressed to hire more prison leavers
https://www.ft.com/content/4f8de149-722f-45b3-a14b-db62e5a4fa6a
England and Wales - Retail and logistics firms join drive to fill vacancies with prison leavers
England and Wales - Plan to create 20,000 new prison places is 'significantly behind schedule'
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/plan-create-20000-new-prison-8582996
England and Wales - I started work as a prison officer full of optimism, but in a rat-infested jail I saw the ugly, violent reality
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jul/10/prison-officer-cuts-staff-attrition
News 7 July
Americas
US - Study explores incarceration, employment and re-offense during COVID-19 pandemic
https://phys.org/news/2023-07-explores-incarceration-employment-re-offense-covid-.html
US - Arizona says it’s ready to start executing people again
Asia
India - Right to Life applies to Prisoners in Jail and Remand
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=b11fc1ac-835c-4cb8-a54f-7df1800b6f4e
India - Prison Dept To Extend Video Calling Service For Foreign Nationals Lodged in Maharashtra Jails
Pakistan - Prisoners will learn skills, sentences will be reduced, Teuta, Prisons Department agreed to hold technical courses
Death row inmates get pre-execution photo shoots for loved ones in Singapore
Europe
England and Wales - Acorn Recruitment partners with Wales and South West HM prison services and construction businesses
https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/acorn-recruitment-partners-wales-south-27266017
England and Wales - Temporary cells to be deployed at HMP Northumberland to cope with capacity pressures
Georgia Ranks Second in Europe’s Prison Population, CoE Reports
https://civil.ge/archives/551000
Despite Scotland's presumption against short prison sentences, about 75% of inmates were jailed for six months or less in 2020-21 – Karyn McCluskey
Turkey - AKP government to expand probation to release thousands from prison except political prisoners
News 6 July
Africa
Uganda: Prisons Service appeals for Shs10.8 billion for wards
Americas
Canada - Inmate population continues to grow in provincial jails
https://www.brandonsun.com/local/2023/07/05/inmate-population-continues-to-grow-in-provincial-jails
US - Solving the problem of understaffed jails and prisons
US - People incarcerated in Colorado can now reduce their prison sentence by earning a college degree
https://coloradosun.com/2023/07/05/colorado-prison-higher-education-sentence-reduction/
Europe
England and Wales - Multiple prisoners locked up for 23 hours in single cells in crumbling Victorian prisons
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/multiple-prisoners-locked-up-23-30394428
England and Wales - Public put in ‘greater danger’ due to failure to rehabilitate prisoners in overcrowded jails
England and Wales - Youth Justice Board moves to tackle probation officer recruitment crisis
Summer water cuts in prison in one of Turkey's hottest cities trouble prisoners
News 30 June – 5 July 2023
Nearly half of tuberculosis cases in prisons worldwide go undetected
https://www.newswise.com/articles/half-of-global-prison-tuberculosis-cases-remain-undetected
Americas
US - Inmates Need Internet to Prepare for Life After Prison
https://www.wired.com/story/inmates-need-internet-to-prepare-for-life-after-prison/
US - California promises better care for thousands of inmates as they leave prison
Asia
Ending Japan’s ‘Hostage Justice’ System
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/06/30/ending-japans-hostage-justice-system
Malaysia scraps mandatory death penalty for crimes such as drug trafficking, terrorism
Europe
Significant increase in sanctions and measures without deprivation of liberty in Europe: SPACE II annual statistics for 2022
England and Wales - Slow progress on reading education in prisons
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/slow-progress-on-reading-education-in-prisons
England and Wales - Support for mothers in prison and on release lacking, according to new report
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/support-mothers-prison-and-release-lacking-according-new-report
England and Wales - End to Friday prison releases calls time on damaging race against the clock
England and Wales - HMP Fosse Way: Government opens new prison in expansion pledge
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-66056833
England and Wales - HMP Gartree super prison plans delayed again as decision pushed back
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/hmp-gartree-super-prison-plans-8563795
Ireland - Extradition to Scotland refused after judge notes severe prison overcrowding
Malta - Clash of cultures at Corradino prison, former legal officer says
Scotland prisons: Recent spike in deaths sparks concerns
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/23624464.scotland-prisons-recent-spike-deaths-sparks-concerns/
Oceania
Australia - ‘Significant update’ of RACGP Prison Standards
https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/significant-update-of-racgp-prison-standards
Shock in New Zealand at footage of ‘MMA-style’ fight at youth justice facility
News 29 June
Africa
Morocco - King Mohammed VI Grants Royal Pardon to 1,434 Individuals on Aid Al Adha
Americas
Thousands more prisoners across the U.S. will get free college paid for by the government
US - The Unnecessary Risk Of Incarcerating Minimum Security Inmates
US - Inmates are dying in stifling Texas prisons, but the state seldom acknowledges heat as a cause of death
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/06/28/texas-prisons-heat-deaths/
US - NJ leads nation in reducing prison population, ACLU says
https://www.njspotlightnews.org/video/nj-leads-nation-in-reducing-prison-population-aclu-says/
US - Pennsylvania Senate approves legislation aimed at reducing the number of people on probation, in jail
Asia
India - NHRC's Advisory to Tackle an Alarming Rise in Prison Deaths Ignores Ground Realities
https://thewire.in/rights/prison-deaths-mental-health-suicide-nhrc
India - Mumbai: Prisoners To Get Remission For Taking Part In Musical Competitions
Philippines - Gov’t starts jail decongestion; new city jails chief named
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1794699/govt-starts-jail-decongestion-new-city-jails-chief-named
Europe
England and Wales - Surge in prison officer absences due to mental health reasons
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-66039586
England and Wales - Youth justice inspectorate calls for training and education improvements
Isle of Man Prison boss promises action after critical report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-66036710
Northern Ireland - Old block at Maghaberry Prison reopens amid inmates total record
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-66043893
Scotland - Firm paid millions to transport prisoners missing more than 50 transfers a week due to staff shortages
News 28 June
Americas
Brazil reinstates national system against prison torture
https://www.inform.kz/en/brazil-reinstates-national-system-against-prison-torture_a4083719
Solitary confinement is still widespread in US prisons and jails
US - People in Florida prisons will get free calls for good behavior in new program
Asia
India - Tripura to release prisoners who have completed 66% of jail time: Official
Europe
Cyprus - Prison overcrowding among worse in Europe
https://www.financialmirror.com/2023/06/27/prison-overcrowding-among-worse-in-europe/
Pioneering facility offering alternative to women’s prisons opens in England
England and Wales - Prisoners ‘taking bounties’ to carry out attacks at top security Frankland jail
Prison population in the Netherlands low, but pre-trial detention remains high
https://nltimes.nl/2023/06/27/prison-population-netherlands-low-pre-trial-detention-remains-high
Scotland has second highest prison rate in western Europe, study shows
Oceania
New Zealand - 'Disconnection at all levels': Ombudsman's scathing review of Corrections
News 22 – 27 June 2023
Africa
Egypt's prisons are an economic burden in a debt-ridden country
Rwanda: Life Imprisonment Reduction Sparks Intense House Debate
https://allafrica.com/stories/202306270342.html
Uganda – ‘Over 280 children in prison with mothers’
https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/over-280-children-in-prison-with-mothers-163480
Americas
IACHR Presents Report on Women Deprived of Their Freedom in the Americas
https://www.oas.org/en/iachr/jsForm/?File=/en/iachr/media_center/preleases/2023/135.asp
Q&A: Latin American Children With Parents in Prison Get No Support
https://insightcrime.org/news/unseen-consequences-latin-american-children-parents-prison/
Antigua & Barbuda - Six juveniles currently being held in national prison
https://antiguaobserver.com/six-juveniles-currently-being-held-in-national-prison/
Three inmates found hanged at Ecuador prison
https://www.macaubusiness.com/three-inmates-found-hanged-at-ecuador-prison/
El Salvador imprisons dozens of foreign visitors in crackdown on crime
Honduras adopts El Salvador-style tactics in anti-gang crackdown on prison inmates
Several Honduras prison carnage victims were locked up and set on fire, officials say
Jamaica - Editorial | Move prisons past Dickensian-era workhouses
US - Bureau Of Prisons Changes In Works To Comply With First Step Act
US - Report: Incarcerated populations up 4% post-COVID
US - Health Care Coverage For The Incarcerated Population To Reduce Opioid-Related Relapse, Overdose, And Recidivism Rates
US - 1 in 4 inmates killed in Louisiana jails hadn't been tried yet, study finds
Asia
Bangladeshi prisoner gets his sentence reduced by hanging 26 inmates
India - Screen inmates' mental health to prevent in-prison suicides, NHRC recommends
India - At Yerwada jail, prisoners to get smart cards to call up family members thrice a month
Japan's Justice Ministry compiles plan to prevent prison abuse
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/06/23/national/justice-ministry-prison-reforms/
Myanmar Insein: A rare glimpse inside a barbaric prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-65959508
Europe
European incarceration rate increased following the end of Covid-19 lockdown measures: Council of Europe’s annual penal statistics released
England and Wales - Half of prison officers do not feel safe at work - “shocking” new survey
England and Wales - Further rollout of Rapid Deployment Cells to boost prison places
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/further-rollout-of-rapid-deployment-cells-to-boost-prison-places
England and Wales - Sodexo pledge £100,000 to support ex-offenders into apprenticeship training
England and Wales - Prisoner who stripped to pants on HMP Frankland roof brought down after seven-hour stand-off
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/prisoner-who-stripped-pants-hmp-27177771
Ireland - Creation of clear transgender policy for women’s prison `urgent and essential’
Isle of Man - Inmates released from prison without addressing offending behaviour
North Macedonia prosecutor says inmates, psychiatric patients subjected to degrading treatment
Scotland - Under-25s going to prison 'drops by third after new rules brought in'
Scotland - Covid court case backlog means prisoners are serving entire sentence on remand then being released with no money and nowhere to go – Karyn McCluskey
Council of Europe: Turkey’s Prison Population Rises Beyond 300,000
Inmates on hunger strike stand against abuse in Turkish prison
https://medyanews.net/inmates-on-hunger-strike-stand-against-abuse-in-turkish-prison/
Oceania
Australia - Prison inmates to be charged 24c a minute for phone calls as NSW scraps cheaper providers
Australia - Inquiry hears housing crisis and service shortfalls resulting in failures to rehabilitate Tasmanian prisoners
News 21 June
Americas
Honduras prison violence: At least 41 killed in women's jail riot
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-65969092
US - Life after prison: Mass. leaves thousands of prisoners awaiting education that would help their re-entry
Asia
Expert panel takes aim at Japan’s prison conditions following inmate abuse
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/06/21/national/crime-legal/ministry-panel-prison-reform/
Europe
German top court tells two states to pay prisoners better
https://www.dw.com/en/german-top-court-tells-two-states-to-pay-prisoners-better/a-65977679
Turkey - 22 prison staff members detained over alleged torture, mistreatment and embezzlement
Oceania
New statistics show Indigenous Australians 12 times more likely to be in jail over general population
https://www.koreaherald.com/global_insite/view.php?ud=x8lx4ar
News 20 June
Africa
Ghana - New Narcotic Control Act introduces alternatives to prison sentences for ‘wee smokers’
Americas
US - The Impossible Math Behind Pay-Per-Minute Prison Messaging
https://slate.com/technology/2023/06/prison-messaging-cost-gettingout-gtl-viapath.html
US - Alabama inmates’ HIV rates triple rest of population
https://www.al.com/news/2023/06/alabama-inmates-hiv-rates-triple-rest-of-population.html
US (New York) - Legislators look to close loophole allowing slavery for prisoners
US (California) - For women ex-prisoners, food insecurity can trigger catastrophe. Activists want more aid
US - 'Game-changing' bill would steer some NJ offenders from courts to mental health care
Asia
India - UP prisons to be known as “Reform Homes”
https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/up-prisons-to-be-known-as-reform-homes/
Malaysia - Resentencing Process Must Be a Fair And Meaningful Opportunity for Commutation of Death Sentences
https://www.amnesty.org.au/deathpenalty-malaysia/
Europe
Cyprus - MPs concerned about prison overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/06/19/mps-concerned-about-prison-overcrowding/
England and Wales - Thousands of prisoners ‘rotting away with little or no hope of finding justice’
England and Wales - Outpatient clinic held in prison helps inmates who have been waiting 'many months' for care
Ireland - Prison overcrowding at record levels with four to a cell in some facilities
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41165572.html
Oceania
Australia - Special court for Aboriginal kids to reduce prison rate
News 17 – 19 June
Africa
Ghana’s remand prison population reduces significantly-POS Foundation
Rwanda Seeks to Reintegrate Genocide Convicts
https://allafrica.com/stories/202306170071.html
Americas
Ecuador authorities confiscate pigs, fighting cocks from prison
US - Commission urges New England states to prioritize prison education
US - Life With Parole: Probation and parole systems remain understaffed and buggy in Texas.
Asia
Indonesia - Minister lauds prisoner rehabilitation program at Tanjungpinang
Prison riot breaks out in Israel's South, guards regain control
Jordan to release hundreds of prisoners before Eid Al Adha
https://www.thenationalnews.com/mena/2023/06/19/jordan-prisoners/
Philippines - Bill eyes additional prisons under BuCor
https://manilastandard.net/news/314340990/bill-eyes-additional-prisons-under-bucor.html
Singapore - Prison inmates to receive training for food and beverage sector, and help with securing jobs
Singapore - Inmates celebrate Father’s Day with their children in largest family reunion at Changi Prison since pandemic
Europe
OSCE trains Albanian officials on high-security prison regime
https://www.miragenews.com/osce-trains-albanian-officials-on-high-security-1028915/
Cyprus - Only new prisons can solve overcrowding, says prison guards rep
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/06/16/only-new-prisons-can-solve-overcrowding-says-prison-guards-rep/
England and Wales - Armley Prison: HMP Leeds warned about mental health provision after another prisoner takes their own life
England and Wales - HMP Littlehey: Restraint use on frail prisoner inappropriate says ombudsman
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-65930472
Ireland - More than 4,500 in jail as prison population reaches a record high
Scotland - Conservatives oppose 'dangerous' plans they claim would cut prison sentences
https://www.aberdeenlive.news/news/scottish-news/conservatives-oppose-dangerous-plans-claim-8531055
IHD says conditions in Turkish prisons poor, human rights violations common
https://stockholmcf.org/ihd-says-conditions-in-turkish-prisons-poor-human-rights-violations-common/
Oceania
Australia - Prison guards threaten strikes after rejecting pay deal
https://au.sports.yahoo.com/prison-guards-threaten-strikes-rejecting-032145495.html
News 16 June
Africa
Nigeria - Focus on non-custodial sentences to decongest prisons – CSOs
https://www.icirnigeria.org/focus-on-non-custodial-sentences-to-decongest-prisons-csos/
South African prisoners using TikTok to livestream on the rise
https://www.ecr.co.za/shows/vic-naidoo/south-african-prisoners-using-tiktok-livestream-rise/
Americas
America’s questionable employment of prison labour is adding to domestic clothing makers’ woes
Asia
India - ‘Inmates of all Pb jails to be screened’
Europe
Cyprus - Government to upgrade and expand prison facilities to address overcrowding
Hungary - Prison Overcrowding Resolved, Says Justice Minister
https://hungarytoday.hu/prison-overcrowding-resolved-says-justice-minister/
Isle of Man - Prisoner's human rights not breached during Covid
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cqld7nk2x1lo
Jail ombudsman warns of prison overcrowding in Italy
https://www.azernews.az/region/211164.html
Northern Ireland - Maghaberry Prison bursting at the seams with concerns raised over death and drugs inside
SNP told to get a grip of drug scandal at Scots prison with over 1600 incidents in just three years
https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/politics/snp-told-grip-drug-scandal-30240894
News 15 June
Americas
US - Getting Answers: What's Missing From California's Inmate Recidivism Report
https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/cdcr-inmate-recidivism-report-questions-unanswered/
Europe
England and Wales’ Prisons Burdened with Highest Occupancy Rates in Over a Decade
Italy - Prison must respect human dignity and rights says Mattarella
Oceania
Australia - Almost all WA prison officers are ready to strike
https://www.6pr.com.au/almost-all-wa-prison-officers-are-ready-to-strike/
Australia - Medicare Denial Sees Correctives Systems Destroy Prisoner Health to the Detriment of All
News 14 June
Americas
Torture Technique of Breaking Prisoners' Fingers Is Detected in Five States in Brazil
US - Inside a Remarkable Dance Program at a California Prison
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/13/us/dance-prison-california.html
Asia
India - How education can reform convicts: IG Zaidi opens up on prison lessons
Jordanian courts issued 300 alternatives to prison sentences in May
http://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/jordanian-courts-issued-300-alternatives-prison-sentences-may
Europe
England and Wales - POA calls for ban on tins in prisons
https://insidetime.org/poa-calls-for-ban-on-tins-in-prisons/
England and Wales - HMP Hewell: Prison chess clubs helping rehabilitate inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-65889955
England and Wales - Durham Prison Hub opens to help re-integrate prisoners into society
Ireland - Warning of 'revolving door' for prisoners without further investment
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41162068.html
Italy - Stiffer sentences needed for brutalising inmates - judges
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Inmates in lockdown, prisons closed due to chronic correctional officer staff shortages
News 10 – 13 June
Africa
Morocco Adopts Alternative Sentencing Bill To Reduce Prison Overcrowding
Americas
Canada - B.C. community gets Indigenous Justice Centre to help break incarceration cycle
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/chilliwack-indigenous-justice-centre-1.6874142
US - Mellon Foundation to Award Over $5 Million to Expand Prison Education Programs
US - 'Strange' Texas prison policy keeps some women in solitary wearing gowns
Asia
Israel - Prison, Employment services join forces to help ex-convicts stay out of prison
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-745764
Nepal - Prisoners experiencing skin issues due to scorching heat
Philippines - New bill, same problem: Lawmakers bat for more prison facilities to solve jail congestion
Europe
Prison staff launch walkout in Belgium after inmate sets fire to his cell
Cyprus - Proposal to expand prison to ease overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/06/12/proposal-to-expand-prison-to-ease-overcrowding/
England and Wales - Inside the prison where staff feel 'unsafe' and inmates are 'physically and mentally abused'
Black defendants experience longer remand times in England and Wales, new data shows
Northern Ireland - Justice system ‘needs a more targeted approach' to reduce adult re-offending
Scotland - Changes to children's justice system 'would help break cycle of offending'
https://news.stv.tv/scotland/changes-to-childrens-justice-system-would-help-break-cycle-of-offending
Oceania
New Zealand - A watershed report on solitary confinement in NZ prisons must now trigger real reform
News 9 June
Africa
Ghana - President pledges more support for Prisons Service
https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/president-pledges-more-support-for-prisons-service.html
South Africa - ZIZAMELE CEBEKHULU-MAKHAZA | SA's prison reform system needs complete overhaul
Americas
US - ‘I call it pretend freedom’: Older adults coming out of Illinois prisons face steep roadblocks in their reentry journey
https://www.injusticewatch.org/news/prisons-and-jails/2023/older-adults-prison-reentry/
US (New Jersey) - A leftover pandemic restriction in prisons deprives some of ‘lifeline’ family visits
Asia
India - Incarcerated engineer’s e-bike a big hit in Coimbatore Central Prison
Israel - Inmates riot, clash with guards in Beersheba prison riot
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-745736
Nepal - Overcrowded Baglung prison house leaves jailbirds in trouble
Philippines - Solons seek to address subhuman conditions in PH penal facilities
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203229
Europe
Ireland - Overcrowding Continues In Midlands Prison
https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/overcrowding-continues-in-midlands-prison/
Oceania
Australia - National Children's Commissioner launches major project to reform youth justice system in 'crisis'
News 8 June
Africa
Kenya - New bedding for prisons under Sh40bn proposal
Americas
Colombia Senators Approve Cannabis Legalization Bill
https://hightimes.com/news/colombia-senators-approve-cannabis-legalization-bill/
Haitians are dying of thirst and starvation in severely overcrowded jails
US - New York Prison System Reverses Policy Restricting Incarcerated Writers And Artists
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/york-prison-system-reverses-policy-210455864.html
US - Report: Four of California’s prisons ranked worst at handling COVID, care for inmates
US - How can Gavin Newsom reform California prisons but still allow solitary confinement?
https://calmatters.org/commentary/2023/06/newsom-prison-reforms-solitary-confinement/
Asia
Hong Kong prisons work to compel loyalty to China among young activists
Europe
England and Wales - Prison turnaround has inspectors gobsmacked after inmates took control and staff feared for safety
Ireland - New data shows that people who have been subject to probation orders earn up to 30% less than other workers
Over 800 prisoners left waiting for addiction services in Irish prisons
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/politics/drug-addiction-prison-wait-lists-30177823
Oceania
Australia - First Nations justice reinvestment package to support local solutions
https://www.croakey.org/first-nations-justice-reinvestment-package-to-support-local-solutions/
News 7 June
Africa
In Africa, women judges improve trust in courts, bring justice to the less privileged and empower women and girls
Americas
US - COVID prison releases expose key driver of racial inequity
US - A New Prison Policy Blocks Incarcerated Journalists and Artists From Publishing Their Work
https://nysfocus.com/2023/06/06/doccs-prison-blocks-journalism-artists-creative-work
Asia
Lebanon: Sharp increase of deaths in custody must be a wake-up call for authorities
S.Korea to abolish 30-yr period of prescription for death sentence
https://themeghalayan.com/s-korea-to-abolish-30-yr-period-of-prescription-for-death-sentence/
Thailand - Convicts can now seek detention outside prison
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2587099/convicts-can-now-seek-detention-outside-prison
Europe
Belgium -- No more detainees sleeping on floor in Ghent Prison
https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/539694/no-more-detainees-sleeping-on-floor-in-ghent-prison
England and Wales - Prisons are a festering wound in our public services – they need urgent reform
England and Wales - Inspection skills qualification launches for youth offending inspectors
Netherlands - Four prisoners found dead in Zaanstad prison last month
https://nltimes.nl/2023/06/06/four-prisoners-found-dead-zaanstad-prison-last-month
Scotland - Shotts Prison probe as three inmates die after taking lethal cocktail of drugs
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/shotts-prison-probe-three-inmates-27070176
Oceania
Australia - Violent and vulnerable: Ricky, 14, has been to jail 15 times. In Queensland’s youth justice system, he lost hope
News 2-6 June
Global study of miscarriages of justice highlights ‘myth of exceptionality’
Africa
How international standards and norms help to build resilient prisons: Lessons learned from COVID-19 in Africa
Americas
Prisoners Defenders Reports on Torture in Cuban Prisons
https://havanatimes.org/features/prisoners-defenders-reports-on-torture-in-cuban-prisons/
US - Solitary confinement intensifies problems for incarcerated people
https://www.kunc.org/2023-06-02/solitary-confinement-intensifies-problems-for-incarcerated-people
US - California is closing its last youth prisons. Will what replaces them be worse?
Asia
Bangladesh - High Court: Save the poor by appointing prison doctors immediately
Iran prisoner spends 1,000 days in solitary confinement
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-65754099
UN document: UAE keeping rights activists in jail past end of sentences
Europe
Inmates at Belgian prison fed exclusively frozen meals last year
England and Wales - Violence on rise at Full Sutton prison, where some of UK's most dangerous inmates are held
Northern Ireland criminal justice system 'at breaking point'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-65786894
Oceania
Australia - Cheaper to call Vatican City: Why is it so expensive to make phone calls from prison?
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-06/prison-phone-calls-costs-australia/102409868
Australia - ‘Extreme self-harm’: Queensland Labor faces internal criticism over prison system
News 1 June 2023
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t to decongest prisons by half in the next 1 year – Kindiki
https://www.pd.co.ke/news/kindiki-says-govt-to-decongest-prisons-by-half-in-the-next-1-year-182862/
Americas
US - Black-led organizations are leading charge in reform of prisons and the death penalty
US - Study cites concerning gaps in suicide reporting by prisons
https://fronterasdesk.org/content/1848341/study-cites-concerning-gaps-suicide-reporting-prisons
US - New policies needed for maternal health care among incarcerated people with COVID-19, according to NICHD-funded researchers
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/news/053123-maternal-health-care
US - Solitary Confinement Under The Guise Of Public Health: Lessons Learned From COVID-19 And HIV
Asia
Guards beat prison inmates to death in Myanmar’s Bago region, sources say
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/bago-prison-beatings-05312023060213.html
Philippines - Technology as key to freedom and digital inclusivity of persons deprived of liberty
Taiwan - Youth justice amendments approved
https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/06/01/2003800810
Europe
Netherlands - Female prison inmates subjected to sexual harassment by guards
https://www.dutchnews.nl/2023/05/female-prison-inmates-subjected-to-sexual-harassment-by-guards/
Oceania
Australia - Indigenous legal centre will improve access to justice
News 31 May
Americas
US (Connecticut) - House advances bill that requires study, not limits, of strip searches
https://ctmirror.org/2023/05/30/ct-strip-search-prison-end-bill-study/
US - Chronic understaffing at Hawaiʻi prisons balloons overtime costs
US - “Moral injuries”: Solitary confinement intensifies problems for incarcerated people. It also changes the Colorado therapists who send them there.
https://coloradosun.com/solitary-confinement-clinicians-moral-injury/
US - The war on drugs fills Missouri prisons with poor, rural women. That isn’t justice | Opinion
https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article275909651.html
Asia
Cambodia - Ministry to end inmates’ illegal use of phones in prison
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501299238/ministry-to-end-inmates-illegal-use-of-phones-in-prison/
Europe
Belarus must release all prisoners held on political grounds and protect their rights: UN experts
England and Wales - Prison and Probation Service plans new body-worn video deployment
England and Wales - Concerns at Nottinghamshire's HMP Lowdham Grange prison after three deaths in three weeks
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/local-news/concerns-nottinghamshires-hmp-lowdham-grange-8481999
England and Wales - Keepmoat and HM Prison Service launch bricklaying academy to teach prisoners new skills
Scotland - Prison suicides of two young Glaswegians to be investigated by court
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/prison-suicides-two-young-glaswegians-27021051
News 27 – 30 May
Americas
Canada - Isolation cells in women’s prisons used almost exclusively for Indigenous prisoners, panel finds
Report: At least 153 people arrested under special powers have died in Salvadoran prisons
US - Incarcerated people use TikTok videos to expose Alabama’s prison conditions
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/may/26/alabama-prison-conditions-tiktok
US - San Francisco Jail First in Nation to Provide Free Content to Incarcerated People
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/san-francisco-jail-free-content-incarcerated-people/3239560/
Asia
Number of people prosecuted in China’s courts up 12% in five years, report shows
Women in Indian prisons denied menstrual products despite rules
https://www.devex.com/news/women-in-indian-prisons-denied-menstrual-products-despite-rules-105565
India - To free up prison spaces, authorities weigh plan to pay for undertrials’ bail
Europe
England and Wales - Prisons in 'catastrophic' state with space set to run out in six weeks, jail chiefs warn
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/prisons-catastrophic-state-space-set-30103587
England and Wales - HMP Northumberland: Prison farm shop to sell inmates' produce
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-65719785
England and Wales - Prisoners locked up for too long at HMP Birmingham, report finds
Ireland needs to build more prisons, says outgoing Justice Minister Simon Harris
Ireland - Third of prisoners awaiting mental health services, report finds
HMP Addiewell: Life in one of Scotland’s last private prisons
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/23551275.hmp-addiewell-life-one-scotlands-last-private-prisons/
Scotland’s prisons chief warns against courts caging more women when new £85m jail opens
Scotland - Prisoners at Barlinnie to get landlines installed in their cells
https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/prisoners-barlinnie-landlines-installed-cells-112312405.html
Oceania
Australia - Over-representation of Aboriginal people in New South Wales prisons "highest on record"
News 26 May
Africa
Egypt's female 'prisoners of poverty' struggle with stigma
Kenya - Kiambu Prison Rehabilitates Offenders Through Running A Farm Nursery
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/kiambu-prison-rehabilitates-offenders-through-running-a-farm-nursery/
South Africa - Prison life: The daily routine of an inmate
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/culture/prison-journalism/prison-life-daily-routine-of-an-inmate/
Americas
Canada - Tightened Bail Restrictions Unlikely To Curb Violent Crime, Experts Warn
U.S. among 17 countries that practice forced labor, a form of ‘modern slavery,’ report finds
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/05/25/slavery-united-states-forced-prison-labor/
All 123 US federal prisons need 'maintenance': Inspector general
https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/123-us-federal-prisons-maintenance-022602879.html
US - Ex-guard charged with 95 counts of sexual abuse in California women’s prison
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/may/25/california-womens-prison-guard-sexual-assault
US - Maryland’s Solitary Confinement Reform Bill Stalls in the Democratic State Legislature
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/maryland-solitary-confinement-bill-stalls/
Asia
India - What is the Model Prisons Act announced by the MHA?
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/model-prisons-act-mha-8630225/
Europe
England and Wales - Pentonville prison slammed for overcrowding again as inspectors return to find more inmates than last time
England and Wales - The trouble with 'failing' Exeter Prison as it reaches critical point
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/trouble-failing-exeter-prison-reaches-8459901
Ireland - Lack of oversight of restorative justice as government officials failed to meet with schemes for year and a half
Prison overcrowding and maximum security use criticised in latest Irish Penal Reform Trust report
Scotland - The £85m prison with no bars on the windows
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-65715387
News 25 May
Africa
Kenya - I choose jail: Why Lamu prison is teeming with repeat offenders
Americas
Program allows incarcerated women to raise their children inside Canadian prisons
El Salvador’s Prison State
https://www.aljazeera.com/program/fault-lines/2023/5/24/el-salvadors-prison-state
US - The ongoing debate on prison labor: is it a form of slavery?
US - Editorial: Two Alabama governors who supported the death penalty explain why it's wrong
Asia
India - Tracking devices, separate transgender cells: Centre outlines new prison rules
Malaysia - Home Ministry: Prison Dept is not considering public flogging for drug offences as alternative to abolished mandatory death penalty
Philippines - Nearly 6,000 inmates freed under Marcos administration
Europe
England and Wales - Suicidal women are being sent to prison, although they’ve committed no crime
https://inews.co.uk/opinion/suicidal-women-prison-committed-crime-2360296
England and Wales - Crime reoffending rates being tackled with new bricklaying academy at Doncaster prison
Scotland - Significant progress on courts backlog
https://www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/news/significant-progress-on-courts-backlog
News 24 May 2023
Africa
Egypt has renewed pre-trial detention of over 20,000 people in 9 months, says rights group
Americas
Cuba - Socialism, death penalty and criminal punitiveness: notes on the Penal Code
New report reveals over 122K are held in solitary confinement in U.S. prisons and jails
US (New Jersey) - As prison population grays, calls grow for ‘geriatric parole’
https://newjerseymonitor.com/2023/05/23/as-prison-population-grays-calls-grow-for-geriatric-parole/
Asia
India - Training in beekeeping given to inmates of open air prison in Coimbatore
Philippines - PH pledges support for UN Nelson Mandela Rules
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1202138
Europe
England and Wales - Prison 'job centres' and business link-ups help boost ex-offender employment
England and Wales - 200 Albanian offenders to be sent home from UK cells in prison transfer scheme
England and Wales - Prison services rules ‘actively preventing’ women and children from rehabilitation
https://www.thejusticegap.com/26072-2/
England and Wales - TV presenter Fred Sirieix launches third prison restaurant run by inmates
Scotland - Young offenders praise 'life-changing' Rangers charity scheme to help them into work
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/young-offenders-praise-life-changing-153218123.html
Oceania
New Zealand - Corrections restructuring proposals goes to staff
News 23 May
Africa
Medical neglect: The gateway to slow death in Egypt prisons
Americas
US - ‘Worse than what we thought’: New data reveals deeper problems with the Bureau of Prisons’ Covid response https://www.statnews.com/2023/05/23/prisons-covid-response/
US - 'Air Conditioning is a Human Right.' Heat-Related Prison Deaths Are Rising Due to Climate Change
https://time.com/6281702/prisons-heat-deaths-climate-change-air-conditioning/
US - Colette Peters’ Challenge: Change The Culture Of The Bureau Of Prisons
US - A History of Incarceration by Women Who Have Lived Through It
US - Prison conditions raise concern among people impacted by Georgia criminal system, advocates
US - Calls Are Free, But California Prisoners Still Face Communication Obstacles
https://theappeal.org/viapath-california-prison-phones-tablets-messaging/
US - In Maryland, the older a prisoner gets, the less likely he or she will be paroled, report finds
Asia
India - Chandigarh Health Department to screen over 1K jail inmates for AIDS, TB
Malaysia - Experts welcome recent drug law reforms
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/22/experts-welcome-recent-drug-law-reforms
Europe
England and Wales - Indefinite jail terms are state-sanctioned cruelty
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/may/22/indefinite-jail-terms-are-state-sanctioned-cruelty
England and Wales - Breaking the cycle – A Senedd Committee finds the criminal justice system is failing Welsh women
Student behind bars: Prisoners studying for degrees in German prison
https://starconnectmedia.com/student-behind-bars-prisoners-studying-for-degrees-in-german-prison/
93 inmates have died in Turkish prisons in the last 17 months: report
https://stockholmcf.org/93-inmates-have-died-in-turkish-prisons-in-the-last-17-months-report/
Oceania
Australia - Queensland changes laws to accommodate UN prisons inspectors
News 20-22 May
Africa
South Africa - Vetting blamed for delays in filling vacancies on prison parole boards
Uganda - Shock figures reveal crisis state of prisons
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/shock-figures-reveal-crisis-state-of-prisons-4240990
Zimbabwe Releases More Than 4,000 Prison Inmates
https://www.voanews.com/a/zimbabwe-releases-more-than-4-000-prison-inmates/7100918.html
Americas
Deaths of Indigenous people in Atlantic Canadian jails spark calls for review, change
https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/deaths-indigenous-people-atlantic-canadian-192026210.html
Canada - Justice minister says federal government could not go much further on bail reform
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/lametti-bail-reform-constitution-limits-1.6850914
US - Native Hawaiians Are Overrepresented In Prisons. Cultural Education Could Help
US - Staffing crisis in WV prisons persists as lawmakers reflect on rejected bills
US - California Confronts Overdose Epidemic Among Former Prison Inmates
https://www.noozhawk.com/california-confronts-overdose-epidemic-among-former-prison-inmates/
US - Illinois organizers push to abolish cash bail as they await court ruling
https://prismreports.org/2023/05/19/illinois-fight-to-end-cash-bail/
US - How a ‘Blue Wall’ Inside N.Y. State Prisons Protects Abusive Guards
Asia
India - Manhunt for 573 absconding prisoners released during Covid-19 pandemic
Iran - Executed Prisoners’ Families Tear-Gassed And Shot
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202305205684
Europe
England and Wales - Overcrowding in prisons is a ‘powder keg waiting to blow’
England and Wales - COVID-19 experience for children in custodial settings
https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/covid-19-experience-children-custodial-settings/159283/
England and Wales - ‘We just got left’: How children of prisoners are abandoned by the state
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/children-parent-prison-ignored-impact-assessment/
News 19 May 2023
The death penalty: a breach of human rights and ethics of care
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)01004-8/fulltext
Africa
South Africa - 'One escape from lawful custody is one too many': Lamola gives assurance SA prisons are intact
Americas
Canada - Staff shortages at Nova Scotia jails prompt Charter challenges by inmates
El Salvador gangs: Mass arrests bring calm but at what price?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-65596471
Haiti Sees Rise of ‘Vigilante Justice’ as Gang Violence Soars
https://www.thestkittsnevisobserver.com/haiti-sees-rise-of-vigilante-justice-as-gang-violence-soars/
US - Opinion: Eliminate solitary confinement in prisons, jails
US - Covid-19 Suit Removal Dashed in Pennsylvania Prisoner Litigation
Europe
England and Wales - Inquest begins into young offender found dead in Warrington Prison
News 18 May 2023
Americas
Sint Maarten - Prosecutor: Hundreds of prison sentences not executed in 2022 due to lack of beds
US - W.Va. Lower Than National Average For Prison Incarcerations
https://wvpublic.org/w-va-lower-than-national-average-for-prison-incarcerations/
Asia
Parliamentary panel expresses concern over Indian prison system, safety
Not Guilty But In Jail: The best hope for India’s undertrial prisoners – district-level undertrial review committees – are failing
Pakistan’s Criminal Justice System: Challenges and Reforms
https://dailytimes.com.pk/1094319/pakistans-criminal-justice-system-challenges-and-reforms/
Europe
England and Wales - How internet-free laptops are transforming lives in UK prisons
England and Wales - The law is gone but they are still in jail: who will free Britain’s most wronged prisoners?
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/may/18/jail-law-britain-prisoners-ipp-sentences
England and Wales - Stoke Heath prison told to make improvements after prisoner died of heart attack
Isle of Man - Independent review into recent prison deaths commissioned
News 17 May 2023
Africa
Number of Prisoners in Morocco Increased 10% in 2022
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2023/05/355479/number-of-prisoners-in-morocco-increased-10-in-2022
Americas
In Brazil, prisons without guards offer inmates path to recovery
Canada - Ontario, Bell won't say how much money they made from jail system that charged 'exorbitant' rates for inmate phone calls
US - How inflation is hitting prison inmates
https://www.npr.org/2023/05/16/1176506767/how-inflation-is-hitting-prison-inmates
US - Youth Justice by the Numbers
https://www.sentencingproject.org/policy-brief/youth-justice-by-the-numbers/
US - Why some states are reforming minimum sentencing requirements
https://www.fox47news.com/why-some-states-are-reforming-minimum-sentencing-requirements
US - Bill to let some inmates serving life in prison seek new sentences approved by Alabama House
US - Editorial: California locks people in prisons, and locks out reporters and even lawmakers
US - For the 78,000 people released from prisons in Texas every year, finding a job isn’t easy
Asia
Cambodia - Focus on predicament of children in prison
India - Serious about bail, serious about justice
Indonesia - New penal code offers hope of abolishing death penalty
Singapore executes second prisoner in three weeks
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards threaten with measures citing “indifference” of justice ministry
England and Wales - New annual report finds conditions remain 'very poor' at Aylesbury Vale prison
England and Wales - Staff shortages take toll on prisoners’ experience at HMP Stocken, report finds
Ireland - Restorative justice referrals decreased last year despite Government promise to build capacity
https://www.thejournal.ie/restorative-justice-referrals-decrease-6069162-May2023/
Northern Ireland - High Court: Information given to prison inmates on the potential monitoring of phone calls 'does not meet human rights standards'
Oceania
Australia - Laws to move young offenders to adult jails the moment they turn 18 introduced in State Parliament
News 16 May
Global use of death penalty at highest rate for five years - new report
Americas
Canada - Justice minister planning to introduce bail reforms this week
US (Connecticut) - Federal Prison Employees Ask the Supreme Court to Review COVID Hazard Pay Case
US (Vermont) - The Department of Corrections will end its work crew program. Prosecutors are not pleased.
US - Colorado bill makes phone calls free in prisons and youth detention facilities
https://coloradosun.com/2023/05/16/colorado-prison-calls-bill/
Asia
India - Counselling and skilling: How the state reforms its prisoners
Singapore’s death row ‘main element of its drug policy’
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/5/16/singapores-death-row-main-element-of-its-drug-policy
Europe
England and Wales - Personality disorders in prison and probation: Are specialist units working?
England and Wales - Children in custody held ‘miles from home’ miss out on family visits, HMI prisons warns
Hungarian government to release 700 foreign criminals from jail
https://dailynewshungary.com/hungarian-government-to-release-foreign-criminals-from-jail/
Ireland - Prison boss says short sentences should be ‘discouraged’ to ease overcrowding
News 13-15 May
Africa
Nigeria - Prison decongestion: FG asks governors to waive minor fines owed by inmates
https://www.thecable.ng/prison-decongestion-fg-asks-governors-to-waive-minor-fines-owed-by-inmates
Zimbabwe - President grants amnesty to prisoners
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/president-grants-amnesty-to-prisoners/
Americas
US - California is one of 16 states that allows forced labor, but a constitutional amendment seeks to change that
Asia
Bangladesh - Dozens of foreigners in jail after serving out term
https://www.newagebd.net/article/201623/dozens-of-foreigners-in-jail-after-serving-out-term
India - Centre finalises ‘Model Prisons Act, 2023’, new law to allow reform and rehabilitation of prisoners
Iran hangs seven people in one day after UN voices concern over execution surge
https://metro.co.uk/2023/05/12/iran-hangs-seven-people-in-one-day-after-un-voices-concerns-18774328/
Malaysia seeks to decriminalise possession, use of small amounts of drugs
https://news.yahoo.com/malaysia-seeks-decriminalise-possession-small-084636318.html
Philippines - The decongestion goes on: BuCor releases 267 prisoners
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1769305/the-decongestion-continuous-bucor-releases-267-prisoners
Europe
Revealed: almost 1,000 rapes in prisons in England and Wales since 2010
Ireland - Cork judge 'pushing community service' in light of prison overcrowding
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41137900.html
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - State says sorry for Indigenous deaths in custody, as prisoners say nothing has changed
New Zealand - ‘Systemic failures’ by Corrections revealed after ‘vulnerable’ inmate released without meds, care plan dies two days after 21st by suicide
News 12 May 2023
Africa
Namibia bans tattoos on prison officers - report
https://www.africanews.com/2023/05/11/namibia-bans-tattoos-on-prison-officers-report/
Nigeria - Prison decongestion: NGO said it resolved 1400 Pre-trial cases in five years
Americas
US - Children Suffer When Parents Are Imprisoned
https://www.vera.org/news/children-suffer-when-parents-are-imprisoned
US - First Hearing Held on Ohio Legislation to Abolish the Death Penalty
Asia
India - Open Prison as a Jail reform
https://www.dailyexcelsior.com/open-prison-as-a-jail-reform/
Europe
EU prisons in 2021: populations & overcrowding
https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20230512-2
England and Wales - Improving resettlement support for prison leavers
https://www.fenews.co.uk/skills/improving-resettlement-support-for-prison-leavers/
England and Wales - Inside Swansea Prison's kitchen where Wagamama is teaching inmates to cook its food
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/inside-swansea-prison-kitchen-workshop-26894001
England and Wales - Salvation Army's prison partnership has bags of opportunity
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/news/salvation-armys-prison-partnership-has-bags-opportunity
Ireland - Report recommends prison service keeps responsibility for healthcare
Turkey - Strip-search is an ongoing practice in Edirne prison, opposition deputy says
https://stockholmcf.org/strip-search-is-an-ongoing-practice-in-edirne-prison-opposition-deputy-says/
Oceania
Australian Prisons Have a Hepatitis C Problem, and Drug Criminalisation is to Blame
Australia - 'Litany of failings' in Indigenous man's death after prison altercation
News 11 May 2023
Africa
Nigeria - Prison inmates deserve improved living conditions: PCC
https://gazettengr.com/prison-inmates-deserve-improved-living-conditions-pcc/
Americas
As El Salvador’s Gang Crackdown Continues, Citizens Wonder What’s Next?
US - New Report Shows Mass Incarceration Doesn’t Stop at the Prison Walls
US - Solitary Confinement Tragedies Expose Flaws in Rhode Island’s Prison System
https://upriseri.com/solitary-confinement-rhode-islands-prison-system/
US - Louisiana leads nation in percentage of people in adult prisons for crimes they committed as kids
Asia
India - Prisons Dept seeks job opportunities for inmates in hospitality industry
Philippines - Vaccinate inmates, personnel vs COVID, jail officials urged
https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/vaccinate-inmates-personnel-vs-covid-jail-officials-urged/
Europe
England and Wales - Yorkshire prisoner lands chef job thanks to prison work scheme
https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/yorkshire-prisoner-lands-chef-job-26884666
England and Wales - HMP Bronzefield and the ethics of pregnant women in prison
Pyhäselkä and Kylmäkoski prisons to be converted into "smart prisons" in Finland
News 10 May
Africa
Kenya - State to spend Sh3 billion to modernise prisons
Americas
Canada's justice system favours those who can afford a lawyer, say experts
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/ideas/canadian-court-system-lawyers-fairness-justice-1.6836073
Cayman Islands - Report recommends ‘transformational change’ in prison system
https://www.caymancompass.com/2023/05/10/report-recommends-transformational-change-in-prison-system/
US - California Confronts Overdose Epidemic Among Former Prison Inmates
Asia
Iran: Over 200 executed since January; Türk calls for end to death penalty
https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/05/1136497
Europe
Belgium violated serial killer’s rights, European rights court rules
England and Wales - HMP Gartree: Increase in violence at 'dark and dingy' prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-65540294
England and Wales - Jump in self-harm and assaults at women’s jails
https://insidetime.org/jump-in-self-harm-and-assaults-at-womens-jails/
Ireland - New accommodation block ends ‘slopping out’ at Limerick Prison
https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/05/10/new-accommodation-block-ends-slopping-out-at-limerick-prison/
Oceania
Australia - Advocate slams Darwin Prison's decision to separate newborns from their mothers
Australia - First Nations women respond to Banksia Hill riots with call for immediate reform to youth justice
News 6 – 9 May
Africa
COVID-19, conflict, climate change, and the human rights of people living in African prisons
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(23)00080-3/fulltext
Kenya - Govt Prison Decongestion Plan To Halve Inmate Population: Kindiki
Americas
US - How the Prison Litigation Reform Act Blocks Justice for Prisoners
https://theappeal.org/prison-litigation-reform-act-repeal-unjust/
US - Minnesota may make prison phone calls free to keep families connected, reduce recidivism
Asia
India - How Gangwars Have Played Out In Maharashtra’s Prisons
Islamic State: Hundreds of women on hunger strike at Iraqi prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-65498377
Malaysia - Give ex-prisoners a second chance, says prison director
Philippines - 75 COVID-19 positive NBP inmates still in isolation
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/05/06/2264166/75-covid-19-positive-nbp-inmates-still-isolation
Europe
England and Wales - Watchdog: ‘Ministers blocked Covid jabs for prisoners’
https://insidetime.org/watchdog-ministers-blocked-covid-jabs-for-prisoners/
England and Wales - Figures reveal scale of rape and violence reported at Salford's troubled Forest Bank prison
Ireland - 400 new jail places to house 620 extra inmates
Ireland - Prison overcrowding behind surge in assaults – Prison Officers’ Association
Ireland - Sensory garden for children of prisoners opens in Wheatfield Prison
https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2023/0508/1382495-sensory-garden/
Netherlands - More research needed into drugs use in Dutch prisons: Trimbos
https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2023/05/more-research-needed-into-drugs-use-in-dutch-prisons-trimbos/
Oceania
Australia - ACT Government delays raising the age to 14, defying advice from Aboriginal, legal and human rights organisations
https://www.hrlc.org.au/news/2023/05/09/act-raise-age
New Zealand - Waikato prison to resume in-person visits for first time since start of pandemic
News 5 May 2023
UNAIDS calls for access to HIV prevention, treatment and care in prisons, including access to life saving harm reduction services
Americas
US - Dying Behind Bars: Another Form Of Capital Punishment
https://theappeal.org/aging-prison-healthcare-death-by-incarceration/
US - Prisoners in cages doesn’t violate policy because there is no policy, says Texas official
US (Virginia) – The COVID-19 pandemic created a courts backlog, and people are still waiting in jail
Asia
India - High time prisoners are allowed to vote: Experts
Europe
England and Wales - 50k prison-leavers to plug labour shortages – new report urges
https://www.fenews.co.uk/skills/50k-prison-leavers-to-plug-labour-shortages-new-report-urges/
Ireland - Mountjoy Prison overcrowding — is a new Dublin jail really the solution?
Moldova expands harm reduction services to all prisons
News 4 May 2023
Americas
Antigua & Barbuda - Prison boss to introduce tighter policies to reduce Covid-19 outbreaks
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-boss-to-introduce-tighter-policies-to-reduce-covid-19-outbreaks/
US - Prison Labor: Where ‘Dead-End’ Jobs Meet 21st Century Slavery
https://theappeal.org/prison-labor-slavery/
Asia
Questions raised over facial recognition use in Indian prisons
India - Delhi government proposes virtual court appearance for those under trial
Philippines - As COVID-19 cases rise, BuCor suspends visitation in New Bilibid Prison
https://www.rappler.com/nation/covid-19-cases-rise-bucor-suspends-visitation-new-bilibid-prison/
Europe
England and Wales - Teenager who gave birth alone in prison cell was vulnerable to exploitation – inquest
Almost half of inmates at Scottish prison report abuse from staff
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/almost-half-inmates-scottish-prison-063926076.html
Scotland - Serious safety issues found at HMP Addiewell
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-65472523
Oceania
Australia - WA Kids in Adult Prison Crisis Worsens, Despite State Having Proven Punitive Measures Fail
News 3 May
Africa
Kenya - 7, 000 Petty Offenders Freed From Prison In Decongestion Program
South Africa - Questions over what Correctional Services will do with Mangaung prison after contract terminated
Americas
The number of medically-assisted deaths in Canada's prisons a concern for some experts
Asia
Thailand - Phuket prison inmates to train as boatbuilders in rehabilitation project
Europe
England and Wales - Decision delayed for second time on controversial super prison near Harborough
England and Wales - HMP Stoke Heath 'still to recover' from Covid restrictions
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-shropshire-65454585
England and Wales - Inquest launched into death of baby at HMP Bronzefield
https://www.thejusticegap.com/inquest-launched-into-death-of-baby-at-hmp-bronzefield/
Ireland - Prison officers don riot gear to tackle psychotic inmates
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41130154.html
Oceania
Australia - Why a new $1.1 billion prison in Victoria is sitting empty
News 28 April – 2 May
Africa
Madagascar: Extreme prison overcrowding needs urgent fix, UN experts
South Africa - G4S served with notice to scrap Mangaung prison contract
https://sundayworld.co.za/news/g4s-served-with-notice-to-scrap-mangaung-prison-contract/
Americas
US - Federal prisons want inmates to pay victims, before making phone calls or buying shoes
US - Why Inflation Price Hikes Are Even Worse Behind Bars
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/05/02/why-inflation-price-hikes-are-even-worse-behind-bars
Europe
England and Wales - Terrorists face tougher prison rules to prevent the spreading of extremist views behind bars
England and Wales - Prisons haven’t really recovered from Covid
https://insidetime.org/prisons-havent-really-recovered-from-covid/
France prison population reaches all-time record with 120% capacity
Irish prison overcrowding leads to early release of inmates, including attempted murderers
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-overcrowding-leads-early-29855642
Norway has ditched the word 'prison'. Scotland should think about doing the same – Karyn McCluskey
European Court Fines Russia for Abuse of 'Outcast' Prisoners
Oceania
Australia - ‘Too much money is spent on jails and policing’: what Aboriginal communities told us about funding justice reinvestment to keep people out of prison
News 28 April
Americas
US - Rates of Chronic Conditions, Asthma in Prisons May Be Severely Undertreated, Study Finds
US - Tablets Seen as Tool to Improve Behavior of Prison Inmates
https://www.govtech.com/public-safety/tablets-seen-as-tool-to-improve-behavior-of-prison-inmates
US (Michigan) - Declining prison population does not translate to decreased spending
https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/declining-prison-population-translate-decreased-17922378.php
US - ‘We went from almost no lockdowns to daily lockdowns’: The mental health crisis inside California women’s prisons
https://www.statnews.com/2023/04/28/lockdowns-prisons-mental-health/
US - UN group to tour Los Angeles jails accused of ‘squalid, inhumane’ conditions
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/apr/28/united-nations-tour-los-angeles-jails-meet-families
Asia
China rehabilitation scheme makes morticians of murderers
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/china-rehabilitation-scheme-makes-morticians-031108156.html
Europe
England and Wales - Self-harm incidents rise by more than a third in women’s prisons
England and Wales - Body-worn video cameras for every prison officer to boost prison safety
England and Wales - Conditions at Cookham Wood young offender unit deemed a scandal
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-65415006
Ireland - Prison overcrowding being driven by 50% rise in number of sexual offenders
Ireland - Prison Service says it's unacceptable to detain people with mental health issues
https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0428/1379612-prison-mental-health/
Oceania
Australia - ‘Children don’t belong in prison’: We shouldn’t wait four years to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14
Guam - Major: DOC's local prison population highest in 29 years
News 27 April
Americas
Canada - Inmates in Hamilton, Ontario jail hold week-long hunger strike against deplorable conditions
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2023/04/27/ekrj-a27.html
Curacao - Justice Minister wants new prison with help from the Netherlands
US - When a prison sentence becomes a death sentence
Asia
India - Many overcrowded Bihar jails have double or more than double prisoner capacity
Jordan must renew Defense Order 28 to avoid prison overcrowding — expert
Pakistan’s Premier, Punjab Officials Take Up Prison Reform
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/04/26/pakistans-premier-punjab-officials-take-prison-reform
Europe
Ireland - POA concern over 'pack 'em, stack 'em' prison policy
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/0427/1379372-prisons-overcrowding-poa/
Ireland - Harris promises 620 more prison beds over next five years to address overcrowding
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41125960.html
Ireland - Rise in assaults on officers and increase in prison violence 'of major concern'
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41126104.html
News 26 April
Africa
81% of Nigerians experience legal challenges as experts canvass community justice system
Americas
Canada - Ontario to pay $33M in proposed settlement for class actions over London jail conditions
Canada - Inmates sleeping on the ground at Windsor Prison as overcrowding continues
US - America’s book bans have already come for prisons
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/prison-book-bans-florida-texas-b2324553.html
US - 'A lot of bang for your buck' with jail-based arts programs
https://www.vermontpublic.org/2023-04-25/a-lot-of-bang-for-your-buck-with-jail-based-arts-programs
Asia
India - Soon, e-cycles to make patrolling easy for wardens in central prisons
Singapore hangs Indian-origin man over smuggling of 1 kg of cannabis
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoner is suicide risk after more than two years in solitary, high court hears
England and Wales - West London prison blighted by 'unacceptable levels of violence' with prisoners too scared to leave cells for fear of being beaten up
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/west-london-prison-blighted-unacceptable-26777273
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Keeping Young People Out Of Criminal Justice System
https://www.miragenews.com/keeping-young-people-out-of-criminal-justice-993478/
News 25 April
Africa
Kenya - Alternative dispute resolution key to end overcrowding in prisons
Americas
US - Prisons and pandemic preparedness
https://www.bmj.com/content/381/bmj.p860
US - A hectic job made worse by staffing shortages – a look inside a Louisiana prison
US - How a 1970s Prisoner-Organized Literacy Program Changed Maryland’s Penitentiaries
Europe
England and Wales - Dorset prison violence concern after inmate's throat cut
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-65384441
Northern Ireland - Diplock courts: Use of non-jury trial system to continue in NI
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-65384593
Swiss Prison Inmate Numbers Remain Below Pandemic Level
https://menafn.com/1106082217/Swiss-Prison-Inmate-Numbers-Remain-Below-Pandemic-Level
News 22 – 24 April
Africa
Eid Al Fitr: Morocco’s King pardons nearly 1,520 inmates
https://northafricapost.com/67097-eid-al-fitr-moroccos-king-pardons-nearly-1520-iinmates.html
First phase of new detention centre in Seychelles expected end of October
South Africa - Prison watchdog needs more teeth to curb graft
Uganda - Minister Lugoloobi to push for better prison conditions
Americas
Canada - Rally calls for improved prison conditions as inmates in Hamilton and Niagara refuse food
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/hamilton-niagara-prisoner-hunger-strike-1.6819132
US - Washington state eliminates death penalty from law
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/04/21/politics/washington-state-death-penalty-eliminated/index.html
US - Michigan Clears Criminal Records for Thousands of Low-Level, Nonviolent Offenders–‘Meaningful 2nd Chances’
Asia
Pakistan: Women in prison subjected to discrimination, mistreatment
https://theprint.in/world/pakistan-women-in-prison-subjected-to-discrimination-mistreatment/1533432/
How Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Pushed Through Asia’s First Cannabis Legalization
https://time.com/6273768/anutin-charnvirakul-interview-cannabis/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners 'running the wings', 'inmates off their t*ts', staff who have 'lost control' - the jail that's had £1bn of public money
Ireland - Minister 'should no longer pick people to Prison Visiting Committees'
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41122921.html
Irish Prison Service confirms overcrowding issues
https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0423/1378662-irish-prison-service-confirms-overcrowding-issues/
Luxembourg - Ten prisoners escape from Walloon prison, four still on the run
https://www.brusselstimes.com/468098/ten-prisoners-escape-from-walloon-prison-four-still-on-the-run
News 21 April
Africa
Kenya: Thika Prison to Be Decongested, Inmates Shifted After Cholera Outbreak
https://allafrica.com/stories/202304200295.html
Nigeria - Decongesting death row
https://thenationonlineng.net/decongesting-death-row/
Americas
Costa Rica Segura: President Chaves’ plan to tackle crime and violence
US - Prison educational programs were impacted by COVID-19
https://america.cgtn.com/2023/04/20/prison-educational-programs-were-impacted-by-covid-19
US - The fight to limit solitary confinement in California prisons is set to roil Sacramento again
US - Fewer activities, more assaults: Maryland prisons are short 3,400 officers, union warns
US - Shackling pregnant inmates would be banned in Pennsylvania prisons under proposed law
Asia
Pakistan - Women in prison
https://www.nation.com.pk/21-Apr-2023/women-in-prison
Philippines - 580 inmates freed from BuCor prisons
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/04/21/2260488/580-inmates-freed-bucor-prisons
Singapore to resume executions after 6-month break
Europe
Germany struggles to reform 1930s law jailing fare dodgers
https://www.macaubusiness.com/germany-struggles-to-reform-1930s-law-jailing-fare-dodgers/
News 20 April
Africa
Women in Egypt’s Prisons: Tales of Oppression, Abuse and Human Rights Violations
South Africa - Another G4S employee arrested in connection with Thabo Bester escape plot
Americas
New wave of violence in Ecuador’s prisons leaves 19 inmates dead in four days
Unpacking Honduras’ Plan for Real Disarmament and Prison Reform
https://ticotimes.net/2023/04/19/unpacking-honduras-plan-for-real-disarmament-and-prison-reform
US - As pandemic prison populations fell, proportion of Black prisoners rose
https://news.yale.edu/2023/04/19/pandemic-prison-populations-fell-proportion-black-prisoners-rose
Asia
India - Delhi Prisons Introduce New Rule Granting Remission For Good Conduct During Undertrial Period
Israeli criminal justice system 'overloaded,' needs reform - Gideon Sa'ar
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-739665
Malaysia - Prisoner release programme can ease overcrowding and help with reconciliation, say NGOs
Philippines - Improving PH jail system
https://opinion.inquirer.net/162516/improving-ph-jail-system
Europe
England and Wales - What does it mean to be an older person in prison?
https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/news-item/what-does-it-mean-to-be-an-older-person-in-prison
Oceania
Australia - New Queensland drug laws will keep thousands of people out of justice system, advocates say
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-20/drug-laws-end-to-war-on-drugs-qld-advocates-say/102235406
New Zealand - Double-bunking rises at Rimutaka as Corrections grapples with NZ prison staffing
New Zealand - Probation staff on strike over cost of living, pay gap with private sector
News 18-19 April
Africa
3,298 inmates in Nigerian prisons to face hangman’s noose – Official
https://persecondnews.com/2023/04/19/61832/
South Africa needs an effective prison rehabilitation programme
Americas
Antigua & Barbuda - Prison officers taking polygraphs in bid to stamp out ‘integrity issues’
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-officers-taking-polygraphs-in-bid-to-stamp-out-integrity-issues/
New clashes aggravate prison crisis in Ecuador
https://www.plenglish.com/news/2023/04/18/new-clashes-aggravate-prison-crisis-in-ecuador/
US - Sentencing policy sparks clash over future criminal justice bills
https://rollcall.com/2023/04/18/sentencing-policy-sparks-clash-over-future-criminal-justice-bills/
US - Efforts Spreading to Curb Generational Incarceration
Asia
Thailand - Reforms 'can't end' with legalised cannabis
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2551486/reforms-cant-end-with-legalised-cannabis
Europe
Belgium - Long-term perspective: Flemish prison education overhauled
https://www.brusselstimes.com/461772/long-term-perspective-flemish-prison-education-overhauled
Ireland - Overhaul of Prison Visiting Committees recommended, Cabinet told
Malta - Reform to cut criminal court delays, trim prison terms for early admissions
Russian Prisons ‘Lost’ Up to 17,000 Convicts in 2022 - Mediazona
Sweden could need up to 16 new prisons due to tougher stance on crime
Oceania
Australia - Queensland among worst violators of children’s rights in youth justice system, research finds
New Zealand - A $4 million Corrections recruitment drive boosts prison officer ranks by 53
News 15 – 17 April
Africa
Protracted Pre-trial Detention Crowding Prisons and Undermining Access to Justice in Liberia
South Africa - Corruption in prisons threatens the criminal justice system
Americas
Canada - New program to house, help Indigenous women who are released from jail opens in Saskatoon
Colombia - 4,000 Inpec guards are investigated for irregularities in prisons
Gang clash leaves at least 12 dead in Ecuador prison
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/gang-clash-leaves-least-12-dead-ecuador-prison-2023-04-15/
U.S. prison inmates undertreated for chronic health conditions
https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2023/04/14/prison-inmates-medical-care/7121681487882/
US - New Report Reveals Systemic Medical Neglect and Violence in CA Women’s Prisons
Asia
Giving China’s Death Row Inmates a Second Chance
https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1012714
India - Court directs jail authorities not to strip search undertrial prisoners
Iraqi prisons overcrowded up to 300 percent capacity: Justice ministry
https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/140420231
Malaysia - Abolish solitary confinement, says Bar Council
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/abolish-solitary-confinement-says-bar-council-DB10880056
Myanmar military pardons more than 3,000 prisoners for New Year
Philippines - BJMP congestion rate down by 367%
https://mb.com.ph/2023/4/16/bjmp-congestion-rate-down-by-367
Singapore - Ex-offenders to work with prison officers to keep former convicts from reoffending
Europe
Portuguese prisoners build confessionals ahead of Pope's visit
Oceania
Australia - Six officers injured in ‘major disturbance’ involving juvenile detainees at WA’s Casuarina adult prison
Australia - WA Department of Justice not going far enough to implement coronial findings, Inspector of Custodial Services finds
News 14 April
Africa
South Africa - Mangaung prison an unaffordable strain for correctional service
Zim prison conditions, a recipe for disaster
Americas
St Vincent and the Grenadines - Legal practitioners knock conditions at the prisons – Acting prison boss says its not that bad
US - New York’s ‘Problem-Solving’ Courts Were Shuttered by Covid. They Haven’t Rebounded.
US - Post-Parkland, Florida OKs easier path for death penalty
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/florida-ap-ron-desantis-tallahassee-nikolas-cruz-b2319554.html
Asia
India - More than half of prisoners released during peak COVID-19 yet to surrender as 15-day SC deadline ends
Iran executions surged in 2022 to 'spread fear' - report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-65262012
Europe
England and Wales - Catalogue of failures in damning prison report on Evesham's HMP Long Lartin
England and Wales - Court backlog: MoJ 'likely to miss target'
https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/court-backlog-moj-likely-to-miss-target/5115725.article
News 13 April
Africa
Kenya - Inmates and prison staff deserve better than this
Liberia: Senior prison managers meet to validate a new strategic plan for the Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR)
Americas
Antigua & Barbuda - Prisoners clamour for early release amid Covid outbreak and overcrowding
Six inmates found hanged in Ecuador prison
https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2023/04/12/Six-inmates-found-hanged-in-Ecuador-prison-
US - ‘Ava’s Law’ would allow pregnant women facing prison in Florida to delay their sentence
US - Colorado reduces prison sentences for inmates pursuing higher education
US (Indiana) - Man with schizophrenia was left naked in jail cell for weeks before death, video shows
Europe
England and Wales - Investigation after 12-hour Strangeways prison roof standoff with inmate
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-65260439
England and Wales - Major prison expansion as cells for extra 103 female criminals to be built
https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/major-prison-expansion-cells-extra-8346484
Ireland - Government can address new surge in prison overcrowding without building more prisons
https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41114629.html
Oceania
New Zealand - Nearly 2000 community Corrections workers walk off the job in strike for better pay
News 6 – 12 April 2023
Americas
Covid outbreak in Antigua’s prison
https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/covid-19/covid-outbreak-in-antiguas-prison/
US - New York flouts prison solitary confinement rules: lawsuit
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/new-york-ap-albany-the-box-luis-garcia-b2315715.html
US - Inflation Is Putting Food Out of Reach in New York Prisons
https://www.nysfocus.com/2023/04/11/prison-package-ban-inflation-hunger/
US - Federal judge orders major changes to fix 'unconstitutional' conditions in Arizona prisons
Asia
India - MHA to provide financial help to poor jail inmates unable to afford penalty, bail amount
India - Covid relief over, 3,000 undertrials return to Delhi prisons today
Philippines - 700 Bilibid guards replaced as part of prison reform
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/04/12/2258376/700-bilibid-guards-replaced-part-prison-reform
Philippines - Books behind bars: Inmates read their way out of cramped jails
Europe
Recruitment drive brings in prison staff but Belgian cells still overcrowded
England and Wales - Prison officers 'at breaking point' as sick leave for mental stress surges
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/prison-officers-at-breaking-point-29661835
England and Wales - HMP Whitemoor: Jail was dirtiest ever seen by prison inspector
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-65243787
England and Wales - Pentonville Prison: Ex-inmate explains impact of overcrowding
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-64869698
Concerns over safety with almost 200 inmates sleeping on Irish prison floors
Justice on trial: The challenges facing Scotland's courts, prisons and police
Oceania
Australia - The NT raised the age of criminal responsibility, but advocates say the change is too slow
News 5 April
Worldwide Executions for Drugs More Than Doubled in 2022
https://filtermag.org/global-drug-executions-2022/
Africa
South Africa - Thabo Bester: Parliamentary briefing on prison escape postponed as G4S fails to appear, citing law
Americas
Three inmates dead in latest Ecuador prison riot
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230404-three-inmates-dead-in-latest-ecuador-prison-riot
Guyana - First quarter of prison agri programme very productive – Elliot
US rule to allow some inmates to stay home after COVID emergency lifts
U.S. panel to consider expanding compassionate release for prisoners
US - A month after a hunger strike, some Texas prisoners say they will do it again
https://www.texasstandard.org/stories/texas-prison-hunger-strike-extended-solitary-confinement/
Asia
Justice system plagued by low budgets: India Justice Report 2022
Rethinking Jordan’s overcrowded jails
https://asiatimes.com/2023/04/rethinking-jordans-overcrowded-jails/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners unable to do basic tasks at weekends, inspectorate finds
England and Wales - Victims and Prisoners Bill would swell prison population by 680
https://insidetime.org/victims-and-prisoners-bill-would-swell-prison-population-by-680/
England and Wales - Lewes Prison: Inmates face squalid conditions and violence, inspectors say
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-65173903
Oceania
The number of Aussie teens in detention or under supervision by the justice system continues to fall
https://phys.org/news/2023-04-aussie-teens-detention-justice-fall.html
News 4 April
Africa
Nigeria - Prison Decongestion in Sight as Item Moves to Concurrent List
South Africa - Prisons, profits and privatisation’s perils
https://mg.co.za/opinion/2023-04-04-prisons-profits-and-privatisations-perils/
Americas
US - The high cost of staying in touch while incarcerated can linger long after release
Asia
Israel Prison Service inaugurates inmate-run chocolate factory
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-736317
Malaysia - Consider rehabilitative justice, not punishment only
Europe
England and Wales - Isle of Sheppey prison is improving despite 'high risk of violence' and staff shortages
https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/isle-sheppey-prison-improving-despite-8317653
England and Wales - More male staff could help with violent offenders - probation boss
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-65168181
Netherlands - More plea bargains agreed in bid to ease strain on courts
https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2023/04/more-plea-bargains-agreed-in-bid-to-ease-strain-on-courts/
Scotland - Growing number of phones and drugs being smuggled into prison via drones, figures show
https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/scottish-news/growing-number-phones-drugs-being-29619869
News 1 – 3 April 2023
El Salvador: One year into state of emergency, authorities are systematically committing human rights violations
Mexico - 40 people die in a Ciudad Juárez detention centre fire, after guards refused to open the doors
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons Commissioner backs release of reformed inmates
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/04/01/prisons-commissioner-backs-release-of-reformed-inmates/
US - 'Nobody's paying attention.' Advocates decry 'stringent' application of medical parole
Asia
Malaysia parliament approves law to remove mandatory death penalty
Europe
England and Wales - Report reveals concerns about prison overcrowding as two prisoners share cell made for one
Turkey’s Human Rights Association calls on authorities to end torture in prisons
Oceania
Australia - Woman left in 'urine-soaked clothes' in prison van
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8146407/woman-left-in-urine-soaked-clothes-in-prison-van/
News 31 March
Africa
South Africa - Government seeks options to dump G4S prison contract
Americas
Falklands Prison audit outcomes and recommendations published
https://en.mercopress.com/2023/03/30/falklands-prison-audit-outcomes-and-recommendations-published
US - The history of prison-run newspapers and why they're on the rise
US (New Jersey) - Budget plan includes wage hike for incarcerated people working prison jobs
US - Texas House says no to executing killers with 'severe mental illness'
US (Connecticut) - New Limits on Prison Strip Searches Stall in Committee as Lawmakers Explore Alternatives
US (California) - Inmates sue Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation over COVID outbreak
Asia
Malaysia - Ensure long-term prisoners’ dignity intact, govt told
Europe
Scotland - Prison: Burden of care falls disproportionately on women
Oceania
New Zealand - Three years since in-person prison visits allowed at some North Island facilities
News 30 March
Africa
Zimbabweans Start Debate on Ending Death Penalty
https://www.voanews.com/a/zimbabweans-start-debate-on-ending-death-penalty-/7026859.html
Americas
US - Prisons Use Menstruation as a Form of Punishment
https://time.com/6265653/prison-menstruation-punishment/
US - Colorado’s prison system is backlogged and costing millions
https://www.nbc11news.com/2023/03/29/colorados-prison-system-is-backlogged-costing-millions/
Asia
Malaysia - Home Ministry: Prisons nationwide have an excess of 6,675 inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Report reveals damaging role of gambling in prisons
England and Wales - Young Offenders Warn Settings are ‘Too Risky’ for their Families To Visit
Why books could help empty France's prisons
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230330-why-books-could-help-empty-france-s-prisons
Ireland - Cork Prison Hosts Pop-Up Restaurant
https://westernpeople.ie/2023/03/29/cork-prison-hosts-pop-up-restaurant/
Russian Prison Boss Offers Inmate Labor to Boost Military Production
News 29 March
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Judge: Prison Service must review sentences for 2 ‘lifers’
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/03/28/judge-prison-service-must-review-sentences-for-2-lifers/
Asia
India - 'Out Of Box Thinking Needed To Declog Prisons' : Supreme Court Tells Centre, States
India - Delhi Prisons to start skill development programme
https://www.millenniumpost.in/delhi/delhi-prisons-to-start-skill-development-programme-513290
Omani initiative aims to release 1,300 prisoners during Ramadan
In Pakistan’s Overcrowded Prisons, Inmates Deprived Of Healthcare: Human Rights Watch Report
Europe
Malta - Minister urges banks not to discriminate against former prison inmates
https://newsbook.com.mt/en/minister-urges-banks-not-to-discriminate-against-former-prison-inmates/
Small cells at Scottish prison 'breached international standards'
Oceania
Australia - SA home detention instead of jail saves $200m
https://indaily.com.au/news/2023/03/29/sa-home-detention-instead-of-jail-saves-200m/
Australia - No plans to build new Northern Territory prison amid record inmate numbers and proposed tougher bail changes
News 28 March
Asia
Cambodia - Prison living conditions ‘better now’, says official
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501263144/prison-living-conditions-better-now-says-official/
UN human rights office ‘deeply concerned’ about North Korean prison camps
Philippines - Remulla to new BuCor chief: Help me clean up prison, penal colonies
https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/remulla-to-new-bucor-chief-help-me-clean-up-prison-penal-colonies/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisons to overhaul racism complaints system
https://insidetime.org/prisons-to-overhaul-racism-complaints-system/
England and Wales - Justice Committee publishes survey on public attitudes towards sentencing
England and Wales - New jails ‘will struggle to find staff’, watchdogs warn
https://insidetime.org/new-jails-will-struggle-to-find-staff-watchdogs-warn/
England and Wales - HMP Lowdham Grange confirms third prisoner death in 3 weeks
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/local-news/hmp-lowdham-grange-confirms-third-8296928
Scotland - Bail and Release from Custody Bill: In Context
https://www.holyrood.com/inside-politics/view,bail-and-release-from-custody-bill-in-context
Oceania
Australia - New report reveals the ACT's prison system is 'screaming out for reform'
https://the-riotact.com/new-report-reveals-the-acts-prison-system-is-screaming-out-for-reform/646909
News 25 – 27 March
Africa
South Africa - Prison break: Dozens of inmates escape from jails around the country
Americas
The rampant abuse in El Salvador’s prisons: ‘They beat him to death in the cell and dragged him out like an animal’
Trinidad & Tobago - Transforming prisoners through music
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/03/25/transforming-prisoners-through-music/
Push to expand voting rights in US for those held in jails
https://www.aol.com/news/push-expand-voting-rights-us-162745978.html
US - Idaho governor signs firing squad execution bill into law
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/idaho-governor-signs-firing-squad-execution-bill-into-law/
Asia
Malaysia - Bill to abolish mandatory death penalty tabled for first reading
Europe
Pregnant women in English jails are seven times more likely to suffer stillbirth
England and Wales - New scheme to kickstart prison literacy drive and cut crime
https://www.fenews.co.uk/fe-voices/new-scheme-to-kickstart-prison-literacy-drive-and-cut-crime/
England and Wales - Hundreds of children made to wear GPS tags by UK's Ministry of Justice
Italy - Nordio vows to ease jail overcrowding
Oceania
Australia - Northern Territory prison population rises to record levels
New Zealand - How many guards have been hired after Corrections' $4m ad campaign?
https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/27/how-many-guards-have-been-hired-after-corrections-4m-ad-campaign/
News 24 March
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - PM: Criminal justice system slow, but it has not collapsed
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/03/24/pm-criminal-justice-system-slow-but-it-has-not-collapsed/
US - Private prisons ban closer to law in Minnesota, flogging ‘perverse incentives’ lawmakers say
Asia
India - Supreme Court Directs All Prisoners Who Were Released On COVID-19 Parole To Surrender Within 15 Days
Torture, forced abortions and insects for food: Life inside North Korean jails, says this NGO
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/03/23/asia/north-korea-torture-prison-report-intl-hnk-dst/index.html
Europe
England and Wales - MPs and peers call for prison education to be renationalised
https://www.ucu.org.uk/article/12848/MPs-and-peers-call-for-prison-education-to-be-renationalised
England and Wales - Why it makes no sense to increase prison places for women
https://www.thejusticegap.com/why-it-makes-no-sense-to-increase-prison-places-for-women/
Italy - 23 prison officers suspended in inmate 'torture'
Oceania
Australia - ‘Bully or be bullied’: Harassment, sexism rife among staff in Victoria’s prisons, report finds
News 23 March
Africa
Kenya: Prisons Target 10 Million Trees in Decongestion Drive to See Petty Offenders Freed
https://allafrica.com/stories/202303220458.html
Americas
Salvadoran government points out that its new prison is the “safest” in America
Asia
In Kyrgyzstan's only female prison, Nowruz brings a moment of respite
Europe
England and Wales - Leading UK bosses join mission to get thousands more prisoners into work
Ireland - ‘Nobody should be at risk of violence in prison' – Justice Minister says new rules on management of trans offenders to be published
Oceania
Experts, lawyers lift lid on Australia's 'woefully under-funded' prison mental health services
News 22 March
Africa
Egypt replaces 15 traditional prisons with rehabilitation centres: Interior ministry
https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/492106.aspx
Ugandan MPs pass bill imposing death penalty for homosexuality
Americas
State Prison Sentences in the U.S. Are Getting Longer—But Not Necessarily Keeping Us Safer
https://time.com/6264655/state-prisoners-us-long-sentences/
US - Here’s How the Prisons Agency Fared During the Pandemic
https://www.govexec.com/oversight/2023/03/heres-how-prisons-agency-fared-during-pandemic/384261/
Asia
Bahrain - Open prisons set to be launched
https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1207408/Open-prisons-set-to-be-launched
Malaysia - Home Ministry: Out of every 800 inmates released, only one returns to prison
Europe
Belgium announces new prisons to tackle 'catastrophic' detention system
Northern Ireland - Stormont inertia may hinder prison care, says ombudsman
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-65028739
With crowded jails, North Macedonia adopts pandemic amnesty
Oceania
Australia - ‘Jailing is failing’: How to fix a justice system that punishes disadvantage
Australia - Victoria's Centre of Excellence VET program helps prisoners gain skills to prepare for employment
News 21 March
Africa
Egypt: Human rights groups warn of 'torture and abuse' at Badr prison complex
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/egypt-badr-prison-abuse-torture-rights-groups
Americas
Canada - More detentions won’t improve public safety
US - Arizona plans to dramatically increase hepatitis C testing and treatment in prisons
https://www.statnews.com/2023/03/20/arizona-hepatitis-c-prison/
US - Idaho bill to execute inmates by firing squad clears Legislature, heads to governor
Asia
Malaysia - Govt looking to end natural life imprisonment
Malaysia - ‘Imprisonment should be last resort’
https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2023/03/21/imprisonment-should-be-last-resort
Model prisoners hired by Thai fruit exporter due to worker shortage
UAE President orders release of 1,025 prisoners for Ramadan
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-president-orders-release-of-1025-inmates-for-ramadan
Europe
England and Wales - Empowering Former Inmates through Scaffolding
https://scaffmag.com/2023/03/empowering-former-inmates-through-scaffolding/
News 18 – 20 March
Americas
Canada - Report outlines significant deprivations of liberty in provincial jails in Nova Scotia
Costa Rican President Implements Tougher Measures for Criminals in Jail
Sint Maarten - Court calls end to prison strike, orders medical examinations
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/court-calls-end-to-prison-strike-orders-medical-examinations
US - What does it take to end a life sentence? For these formerly incarcerated actors, it’s theater
US - Families of 14 inmates who died in West Virginia jail allege negligence
Asia
Cambodia - Over 1,200 prisoners pardoned last year
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/1257840/over-1200-prisoners-pardoned-last-year/
India - 20 new high-tech jails to come up in U.P.
India - Maharashtra prisons overcrowded; government plans five new jails, expansion
India - How Delhi prisons are dealing with inmates' health issues
Philippines - BJMP congestion rate dips to 370%
https://mb.com.ph/2023/3/17/bjmp-congestion-rate-dips-to-370-2
Europe
England and Wales - MP condemns government over ‘shocking’ violence at maximum security jail
Oceania
Australia - Human rights advocates sound alarm as Queensland passes "dangerous" youth justice changes
News 17 March
Surge in executions of drug offenders in 2022, more on death row
Africa
Kenya - Community Urged To Help Re-Integrate Released Inmates
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/community-urged-to-help-re-integrate-released-inmates/
Zimbabwe - Govt kickstarts public hearings on death penalty
Americas
Guyana - ‘Respect them’ – no emotional or physical abuse of prisoners – Benn tells Prison Service
St Vincent and the Grenadines - Prisoners with mental health issues to get further attention
https://www.searchlight.vc/news/2023/03/17/prisoners-mental-health-issues-get-attention/
US - The Rise of Life-Without-Parole Sentences
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/03/16/life-without-parole-the-wire-prison-comedy
US - How Incarceration Is Passed Down From Father To Son
https://www.fatherly.com/health/incarceration-passed-down-father-son
US - California to transform infamous San Quentin prison with Scandinavian ideas, rehab focus
https://news.yahoo.com/ending-san-quentin-know-california-120049869.html
US - Oregon’s Prison Population Is Aging, Fast
https://www.wweek.com/news/courts/2023/03/16/oregons-prison-population-is-aging-fast/
US - Restraint chairs in Alabama jails linked to controversial cases and deaths
Asia
India - 15,000 additional prisoners lodged in 59 jails: Bihar government
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards call for end to overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/03/16/prison-guards-call-for-end-to-overcrowding/
England and Wales - Fast-track plan to open jails will free up space for new convicts in secure units
News 16 March
Americas
El Salvador: 2,000 more to prison, vows will 'never return'
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/el-salvador-2000-prison-vows-return-97895269
US - ACLU of Alaska sues over prison involuntary medication rules
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/aclu-alaska-sues-over-prison-221124484.html
US - Connecticut Department of Correction discusses reform after leaders visit Norwegian prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners may have been set free in error thanks to Dominic Raab’s ‘unlawful’ Parole Board reform
England and Wales - Decision delayed on controversial super prison near Harborough
Ireland - Tens of thousands of court summonses backlogged
https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0316/1363521-courts-service-summons/
Turkey - Report on rights violations in prisons in earthquake regions
News 15 March
Americas
Canada - N.S. prisoners deprived of basic entitlements during pandemic: advocacy group
US - Bureau Of Prisons Sees End Of Cares Act Home Confinement, Some Prisoners Will Be Left Behind
US - Federal program seeks to standardize criminal justice data
https://www.axios.com/2023/03/14/police-prisons-criminal-justice-data-latino
Asia
India - 33 jails to be monitored via CCTVs
Japan court orders retrial of longest-serving death row convict over 1966 murder case
Myanmar - Inmates’ families in Arakan State call for allowing prison visits
https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/inmates-families-arakan-state-call-allowing-prison-visits
Europe
Northern Ireland - Concern over Prison Service resources to support inmates with multiple needs
Oceania
Australian boy, 13, spent six weeks in solitary confinement
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-64960479
News 14 March
Africa
Kenya - Lamu prison receives computers to boost digital literacy
Americas
US - COVID-19 is Not Over for People Who Are Incarcerated
https://www.aclu.org/news/criminal-law-reform/covid-19-is-not-over-for-people-who-are-incarcerated
US - Calif. prison program trains, graduates inmates as addiction counselors
US - California Lawmakers Introduce New Effort to Ban Involuntary Servitude as Punishment for Crime in California Prisons
US - New study highlights opioid overdose risk following release from Oregon prisons
Asia
India - Convicts in Coimbatore central prison get life skills training
India - Faridabad: Under open jail plan, convicts to get flats on prison premises
Iran grants amnesty to tens of thousands of prisoners
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20230313-iran-grants-amnesty-to-tens-of-thousands-of-prisoners/
Malaysia - Risk assessment required before inmates eligible for community rehabilitation: Prisons Dept
Philippines - BJMP to add new jail libraries as it includes reading as part of PDL's rehab program
Europe
Belgium - 300 inmates given reduced sentences due to prison overcrowding
England and Wales - HMP Aylesbury ‘thrown into chaos’ by MoJ policy change, says watchdog
England and Wales - Campaigners say evidence for super prison near Harborough is ‘flimsy’
England and Wales - Senedd told inadequate support leads to women re-offending
https://nation.cymru/news/senedd-told-inadequate-support-leads-to-women-re-offending/
Italy - Drug addicts should be in rehab not jail: Delmastro
https://ilglobo.com/en/news/drug-addicts-should-be-in-rehab-not-jail-delmastro-91151/
Russia Turns to Women's Prisons for Fresh Recruits – Reports
Humza Yousaf vows to halve Scottish female prison population
News 11-13 March
Africa
Kenya - Government plans to upgrade prisons facilities
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/realtime/2023-03-13-government-plans-to-upgrade-prisons-facilities/
Americas
Barbados - Court backlog still plaguing swift delivery of justice
https://barbadostoday.bb/2023/03/11/court-backlog-still-plaguing-swift-delivery-of-justice/
Canada - Justice minister commits to targeted bail reform to address repeat violent offenders
Turks & Caicos - Prison remains squalid, as govt mulls programme to fix drainage issues
US (Nevada) - Low wages for prison inmates ‘remnants of slavery,’ says lawmaker seeking to outlaw practice
US - Two Vermont prisons are experimenting with giving incarcerated people more independence
Asia
India - Maha: 9,284 inmates lodged in jails of Thane district against capacity of 3,794
Europe
Belgium - Record number of prisoners move to 'humane' prison in Dendermonde
https://www.brusselstimes.com/403188/record-number-of-prisoners-move-to-humane-prison-in-dendermonde
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, February 2023
England and Wales - Magistrates ‘disappointed’ as sentencing powers cut amid prison places crisis
England and Wales - ‘Systemic failure’ fuelling worsening homelessness and health among prison leavers in Newcastle
Oceania
Australia - Perth man on remand spends 15 days isolated at Casuarina Prison amid COVID-19 restrictions
Australia - Girls will be locked up for longer if Queensland passes new youth justice laws, advocates warn
News 10 March
Americas
US - Oregon looking at allowing people in prison to vote
https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/oregon-looking-at-allowing-people-in-prison-to-vote/
Asia
India - State duty-bound to provide medical treatment to prisoners, says Bombay HC; awards Rs 10 lakh compensation to family of dead undertrial
Philippines - CHR urges review of cases involving ‘arbitrary arrest, detention’ to decongest jails
Europe
Belarus approves death penalty for officials convicted of high treason
England and Wales - The failures of education in prison are criminal
https://www.bigissue.com/news/social-justice/the-failures-of-education-in-prison-are-criminal/
England and Wales - Eastwood Park Prison staff shortages impacting safety
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-64904946
England and Wales - Gang culture being ‘tacitly encouraged’ inside London prison, watchdog warns
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/feltham-prison-youths-gang-culture-watchdog-b1065975.html
England and Wales - Deaths, fights and cold food - report reveals shocking reality of life inside Wormwood Scrubs prison
https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/deaths-fights-cold-food-report-26434087
England and Wales - Top Sheffield Crown Court judge highlights serious problems as prisons battle overcrowding 'crisis'
Oceania
Australia - Prison is no place for those trapped by mental illness
Australia - Think tank proposes prisoners work full time to fill job vacancies, save economy $2bn
Detainees with disabilities in 'spiral of hopelessness' after cancelled United Nations visit to Australia
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-10/cancelled-un-detention-visit-disability-prisoners/102068996
New Zealand - Only one prison fully staffed as shortage of guards grows
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300827133/only-one-prison-fully-staffed-as-shortage-of-guards-grows
News 9 March
Americas
US - The Bureau Of Prisons Evolving Calculation Of First Step Act
US (Nevada) - Prison inmates would earn ‘living wage’ under Legislature bill
Asia
Thailand: Annual report paints bleak picture of prison conditions
Europe
Prison staff in Belgium go on 24-hour strike
https://www.brusselstimes.com/397856/prison-staff-strike-in-belgium-impacting-prisoners
England and Wales - HMP Northumberland: Prison says post-release opportunities improving
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-64888418
England and Wales - Prison: Justice system makes many women reoffend, report finds
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-64890994
England and Wales - HMP Leeds: Armley prison told to take 'urgent action' after prisoner's suicide weeks after entering
First Assisted Suicide In Swiss Prison
https://www.barrons.com/news/first-assisted-suicide-in-swiss-prison-6d0d0572
Oceania
Australia - Youth prison guards walk off job at Banksia Hill Detention Centre as industrial dispute escalates
News 8 March
Africa
In prison for debt, thousands of women are the ‘double victims’ of poverty in Egypt
https://www.equaltimes.org/in-prison-for-debt-thousands-of
Americas
US - Study: Transition to adulthood brings mental health declines for Black youth who interact with juvenile justice system
https://phys.org/news/2023-03-transition-adulthood-mental-health-declines.html
Asia
India - ‘Prisons fare poorly in menstrual hygiene’
Malaysia - Community service for offenders helps prisons reduce overcrowding
Saifuddin: Malaysia to decriminalise minor drug offences to solve overcrowding in prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Black inmates face disproportionate force, prison watchdog warns
Oceania
Australia - Health care offered to women in prison should match community standards – and their rights
News 7 March
Africa
Zimbabwe - Ministry Of Justice To Seek Public Opinion On Death Penalty
https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/03/07/ministry-of-justice-to-seek-public-opinion-on-death-penalty/
Americas
Inside El Salvador’s mega prison: the jail giving inmates less space than livestock
https://www.ft.com/content/d05a1b0a-f444-4337-99d2-84d9f0b59f95
Guyana - IDB loan to assist in prison reform
https://www.stabroeknews.com/2023/03/07/news/guyana/idb-loan-to-assist-in-prison-reform/
Europe
England and Wales - New early release scheme unveiled by Government
https://insidetime.org/new-early-release-scheme-unveiled-by-government/
Ireland - Prisoners to be given access to fertility treatment
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41086438.html
Scottish Prison Service faces first UK prosecution for corporate homicide
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-64841142
News 4 – 6 March
Africa
Two guards killed in gunfire as four break out of Mauritania jail
Parliament flags overcrowding in Zimbabwe prisons
https://www.zimlive.com/parliament-flags-overcrowding-in-zimbabwe-prisons/
Americas
Guyana - 39 prisoners graduate from crop husbandry & culinary art courses
https://newsroom.gy/2023/03/05/39-prisoners-graduate-from-crop-husbandry-culinary-art-courses/
Report Documents Devastating Findings Regarding Female Incarceration in USA and Role of COVID-19 Pandemic
US - Voting rights restored to more than 55,000 Minnesotans under new felon voting rights law
Asia
Caste system in Indian Prisons: Unconstitutional but legal – State prison manuals legitimise caste-based rules for prisoner activities, from cleaning to cooking. Judiciary must step in to strike down offending provisions
Europe
England and Wales - Criminals will be spared jail to avoid pressure on overcrowded prisons
England and Wales - Prisoners are demanding a pay rise as jail shops become unaffordable amid costing of living crisis
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/10315469/cost-of-living-prisoners-pay-rise/
Isle of Man - Showdown in court over jail’s Covid rules
https://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/showdown-in-court-over-jails-covid-rules-598780
Pressure on Scottish Government to replace Greenock's crumbling prison
Oceania
Australia - Indigenous woman alleges she was subject to torture and inhuman treatment in ACT prison
Australian prisons a "merry-go-round" of hepatitis C reinfection
News 3 March
Americas
Guyana - Lusignan Prison inmates transitioning into new state-of-the-art facility
Minister Phillip advocates for changes to Prison Work Programme in St. Kitts and Nevis
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/121347
US - Rehab on hold: COVID devastated prison learning programs
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-california-covid-los-angeles-isolation-b2292940.html
Understanding mass incarceration in the US is the first step to reducing a swollen prison population
US - California faces hefty court fines for lagging efforts to prevent prisoner suicides
Europe
England and Wales - 'My Friday prison release led to a disastrous mistake'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-64831235
England and Wales - Norwich Prison installs quick-build cells to meet demand
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-64829261
Oceania
New Zealand - Prisoners to get free phone calls, but face-to-face visits still lacking
News 2 March
Africa
Egypt: Why inmates are dying in Sisi's new 'model' prison
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/egypt-why-inmates-dying-model-prison-badr
Americas
British Virgin Islands - E-tagging could ease prison issues, governor says
https://www.bvibeacon.com/e-tagging-could-ease-prison-issues-governor-says/
Health Care in U.S. Correctional Facilities — A Limited and Threatened Constitutional Right
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMms2211252?query=featured_home
US - Human rights attorneys urge UN to review the solitary confinement of Black Americans
https://www.yahoo.com/news/human-rights-attorneys-urge-un-181754022.html
US - Hunger strike in Texas prisons ends after seven weeks, for now
https://www.tpr.org/news/2023-03-01/hunger-strike-in-texas-prisons-ends-after-seven-weeks-for-now
US - Georgia prisons see unprecedented number of suicides
Asia
India - What a string of deaths in one jail says about the state of Jammu and Kashmir’s prisons
Behind bars, women of Iran's Evin prison refuse to give in
Philippines - Prison reform a cornerstone of Marcos gov’t, DoJ chief tells UN
Europe
England and Wales - Investigation after inmate dies at Devon prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clkrpyv1nl9o
Scotland - Latest quarterly criminal court figures continue to show progress
News 1 March
Americas
El Salvador - Bukele shows off thousands of imprisoned gang members in new mega prison
El Salvador Jailed 64,000 Gangsters in Crime Crackdown, Defense Minister Says
US - Drug Courts: Effective, Inexpensive, and Out of Reach for Many Americans
US - A new push to ban involuntary servitude in California prisons
Asia
Philippines - PH looks into ‘outside-the-box solutions’ to problems of congested prison facilities
Europe
England and Wales - Multiple failings identified after burglar found dead in cell at Hull Prison
NI prison service gets new 'game changer' body scanners
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-64803571
Draft protocol for restorative justice in Northern Ireland published
Oceania
Australia - Prison officers at private jail walk off the job in NSW
News 28 February
Africa
Democratic Republic of Congo - Sixty-six die at Kinshasa's main jail from January
https://kalkinemedia.com/news/world-news/sixty-six-die-at-kinshasas-main-jail-from-january
Egypt: Release Prison Population Figures
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/02/28/egypt-release-prison-population-figures
Americas
US - Bureau of Prisons: Assessment of Health Care Reentry Policies and Procedures Needed
https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-105610
Asia
Bangladesh - 2,162 convicts now in condemned cells: Report
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/court/2162-convicts-now-condemned-cells-report-591542
Europe
England and Wales - New East Yorkshire 'all-electric' prison to be named HMP Millsike
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-humber-64787360
Ireland – Over half of female prisoners are on methadone, new figures reveal
Oceania
Australia - Aboriginal man taken off waiting list for mental health bed a week before prison suicide, inquest told
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-28/tim-garner-death-in-custody-inquiry/102033654
Australia - Queensland boy held in solitary confinement in breach of youth justice laws, court hears
News 25 – 27 February
Americas
El Salvador Transfers First Prisoners to the Country’s New Mega Prison, With Capacity for 40,000 Inmates
Trinidad & Tobago - NGOs question delay in restarting prison rehab programmes
https://newsday.co.tt/2023/02/26/ngos-question-delay-to-restart-prison-rehab-programmes/
US - Fighting the High Cost of Prison Phone Calls
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/02/25/prison-phone-calls-colorado-biden-securus
UCLA Law Releases New Database to Monitor Deaths in U.S. Prisons
Asia
India - Jailhouse Rock in Ludhiana: A radio station by and for the prisoners
Israel: UN experts alarmed by potential reinstatement of death penalty for “terrorism offences”
Singapore Prison Service to study effectiveness of imprisonment, community-based corrections
Europe
Trans violent offenders banned from women’s prisons in England and Wales
Netherlands - Some 8,000 convicted criminals are evading prison, most are abroad
Oceania
Australia - More than a third of prisoners are locked up without a sentence. For decades, that number has been growing
Australian Institute of Criminology looks at intergenerational incarceration in NSW
News 24 February
Americas
U.S. prison population fell 10th straight year in 2021
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2023/feb/23/us-prison-population-fell-10th-straight-year-2021/
US -Lethal injection debate swirls around Texas executions
https://www.newagebd.net/article/195219/lethal-injection-debate-swirls-around-texas-executions
Asia
Number of people on remand in Hong Kong jails pending trial hits decade high, but figures for new prisoners and detained suspects drop
Europe
England and Wales - The mental health crisis in women’s prisons
Ireland - Legal obstacles impeding investigations into deaths in custody, says prison watchdog
Oceania
Australia - Watchdog says Qld youth laws will 'erode basic rights'
https://www.mandurahmail.com.au/story/8098649/watchdog-says-qld-youth-laws-will-erode-basic-rights/
News 23 February
Americas
Jamaica - Correctional services offers expanded skills training options for inmates
US - The Sentencing Project Launches Education Campaign on Mass Incarceration
US - Frail people are left to die in prison as judges fail to act on a law to free them
US - All former Washington prisoners can now vote. So far, few have
Asia
Malaysia - Bill related to abolition of mandatory death penalty to be tabled at parliament next month
Europe
England and Wales - Report criticises healthcare at HMP The Verne, Portland
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23339675.report-criticises-healthcare-hmp-verne-portland/
Lithuania: Prisons Need Modernising To Curb Violence
https://www.miragenews.com/lithuania-prisons-need-modernising-to-curb-953512/
Northern Ireland prisons paramilitary separation won't be easy to scrap, MPs told
News 22 February
Americas
US Plans to Allow Medicaid for Drug Treatment in Prisons
US (Colorado) - House passes bill to reduce prison sentences for inmates pursuing higher education
Asia
Asia-Pacific prisons deploy ‘dehumanising’ facial recognition
Myanmar prison guards injure more than 80 inmates when argument turns violent
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/prisoners-02212023160713.html
Europe
Belarus wants to implement death penalty for treason: law passes second reading
https://www.yahoo.com/news/belarus-wants-implement-death-penalty-130008454.html
England and Wales - Young black boys almost THREE times more likely to enter youth justice system https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/young-black-boys-almost-three-29277193
Scotland - 61% reduction in the trials backlog accrued during the COVID-19 Pandemic
News 17 – 21 February
Africa
Uganda - Embrace alternatives to custodial sentences to curb prison congestion
Americas
Latin America’s prisons are overcrowded and violent
https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2023/02/16/latin-americas-prisons-are-overcrowded-and-violent
El Salvador prisoner ‘rearrests’ fuel new concerns
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/2/17/el-salvador-prisoner-rearrests-fuel-new-concerns
US - As the Pandemic Swept America, Deaths in Prisons Rose Nearly 50 Percent
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/19/us/covid-prison-deaths.html
Sen. Cory Booker Wants To Reform Exploitative Prison Labor In The U.S.
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/cory-booker-prisons-reform_n_63ee5565e4b022eb3e353ffe
US - How ‘Cruel and Not Unusual’ Conditions Persist in Many Lockups
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2023/02/18/texas-arizona-alabama-rikers-prison-conditions
US (Florida) - After report outlines private prison problems, lawmakers demand fixes
Asia
India - Prisoners injured while working in jail entitled to compensation, says Delhi HC
India - Odisha to get the largest jail of India, to house 2500 inmates
https://kalingatv.com/state/odisha-to-get-the-largest-jail-of-india-to-house-2500-inmates/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisons should improve transparency in death investigations to improve prison safety, report finds
https://phys.org/news/2023-02-prisons-transparency-death-prison-safety.html
England and Wales - Nightingale Courts to remain open to boost capacity and speed up justice
England and Wales - Overcrowded prison to get more inmates
https://www.islingtontribune.co.uk/article/overcrowded-prison-to-get-more-inmates
England and Wales - New figures cast more doubt on super prison plans near Harborough, say campaigners
Ireland - End of ‘slopping out’ in Limerick Prison as compensation costs mount
Oceania
Australia’s credibility on human rights at risk as UN terminates visit to Australia
https://www.hrlc.org.au/news/2023/2/21/un-terminates-aus-visit
News 11 – 16 February
Africa
Egypt's model prison rife with abuses, inmates' families and activists say
HIV Treatment and Prevention in Zambian Prisons May be Model for Prisons Worldwide
Americas
3 Dead, 43 Injured In Brazil's Prison Fire
https://menafn.com/1105582882/3-Dead-43-Injured-In-Brazils-Prison-Fire
British Virgin Islands - Governor endorses ‘electronic tags’ for non-violent prisoners
https://bvinews.com/governor-endorses-electronic-tags-for-non-violent-prisoners/
Watchdogs, MPs slam Canada’s prison officials on treatment of Black, Indigenous inmates
Canada - Prison watchdog calls for more harm-reduction services to prevent drug overdoses and deaths
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-prison-watchdog-harm-reduction-overdose-crisis/
US - Long prison sentences are cruel and ineffective: here’s the proof
US - We’ve Been Asking the Same Question About Prison Tech Training for 50 Years
https://slate.com/technology/2023/02/prison-tech-training-programming-higher-education.html
US - Senate prison system inquiry reveals ‘national disgrace,’ Ossoff says
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/02/10/jon-ossoff-bop-prison-abuse-hearings/
US - What Are Some Common Problems With Rural Jails In America?
https://www.rebellionresearch.com/what-are-some-common-problems-with-rural-jails-in-america
US - Suicides persist in New York's prisons and jails
US (Arizona) - How a Giant Egg Farm Made Money Off Women Prisoners in Dangerous Conditions
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/lifestyle/a42710907/women-prisoners-at-hickmans-farms/
US - Alabama prison staff shortage worsens despite court order
https://www.wtok.com/2023/02/13/alabama-prison-staff-shortage-worsens-despite-court-order/
US - California and Nevada may ban slavery, forced prison labor
Asia
India - Odisha approves compensation for family of prisoners who die in jail
Malaysia - Govt mulls new temporary act for inmates undergoing mandatory death penalty
Saudi Arabia - Prisons chief inaugurates rehabilitation project at Riyadh women’s prison
https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/629865
Europe
One-third of people in prison in Europe suffer from mental health disorders
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, January 2023
England and Wales - Nottinghamshire prison workshops meant to teach inmates new skills 'lying empty'
England and Wales - HMP Exeter: Shocking standards at prison slammed by inspectors
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/hmp-exeter-shocking-standards-prison-8152896
Ireland - At least 15 prisoners took their own lives over past decade
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41070293.html
Ireland - Women still sleeping on floors in Limerick Prison
https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/02/10/women-still-sleeping-on-floors-in-limerick-prison/
Oceania
Australia - Justice Dept admits not knowing how long Banksia Hill detainees have been locked in cells
News 10 February
Africa
Helping to Improve Conditions for Detainees in Ethiopia
https://allafrica.com/stories/202302100332.html
Liberia: Justice Minister Dean Alarms Potential Food Shortage At Prison Facilities
Americas
Anguilla - Prisoners given opportunity to provide input on improving prison conditions
Canada - Justice minister says federal government giving bail reform 'serious consideration'
Canada - B.C. prison system failing incarcerated Indigenous people: auditor general
Asia
Malaysia - Prisons Dept calls for halfway houses to accommodate paroled female convicts
Malaysia - Give ex-convicts a chance, Prisons Dept urges employers
Europe
England and Wales - Chronic backlog of serious-crime cases hits courts
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64586483
'No value' to mandatory sentencing guidelines - Irish Penal Reform Trust
Trans prisoners in Scotland to be first sent to jails matching their birth gender
Three inmates dead in earthquake-hit Turkey prison riot
https://euroweeklynews.com/2023/02/09/three-inmates-dead-in-earthquake-hit-turkey-prison-riot/
News 9 February
Africa
Zambia Commutes Nearly 400 Death Sentences After Law Change
https://www.barrons.com/news/zambia-commutes-nearly-400-death-sentences-after-law-change-01675886708
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Criminal activity behind bars
https://www.guardian.co.tt/opinion/criminal-activity-behind-bars-6.2.1629494.e3307de207
US - Reconstructive Justice — Public Health Policy to End Mass Incarceration
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMms2208239?query=featured_home
US - Bill introduced to prohibit forced births in Arizona prisons
Asia
Singapore - Four in 10 former inmates released from prison in 2017 ended up behind bars again
Europe
England and Wales - MPs regret government rejecting review of IPP sentences
England and Wales - Why are we still sending children to prison?
https://www.thejusticegap.com/why-are-we-still-sending-children-to-prison/
England and Wales - Oxfordshire support scheme for prisoners' children set to expand
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-64579339
Ireland - Cork Prison now operating at 100% capacity
https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41067221.html
Oceania
Australia - Jails are filling up with drug offenders but the government could reap $1 billion
News 8 February
Americas
Bahamas - Prison parole programme to begin with Grand Bahama inmates
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2023/feb/07/prison-parole-programme-begin-grand-bahama-inmates/?news
Ottawa still crafting Black Canadian justice strategy as advocates call for reform
https://globalnews.ca/news/9469806/ottawa-black-canadian-justice-strategy/
Jamaican government encouraging citizens to use restorative justice to settle disputes
US - Incentives for Those on Probation Can Improve Outcomes and Rein in Costs
US (Texas) - Men put in prison cages without bathrooms or beds, say reform groups
US - California will try to limit solitary confinement — again
US (California) - ‘Every day matters’: Newsom told 123 prisoners they could get out early. Why are a third still behind bars?
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-02-08/gavin-newsom-california-commutations
US - Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on Arrests in California
https://www.ppic.org/publication/assessing-the-impact-of-covid-19-on-arrests-in-california/
Asia
India - Delhi HC seeks Centre’s response on plea against solitary confinement of jail inmates
India - 89 convicts availed educational remission by completing degrees, courses while serving sentences: Maharashtra Prisons Department
Europe
England and Wales - Most probation services are over capacity, leaked data reveals
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64344284
England and Wales - Ethnic minority defendants ‘more likely to be charged than white British people’
Northern Ireland - Council fails to deliver prison leaver employment project in district which receives millions in rates from two prisons
Oceania
Australia - Victorian courts plagued by delays as tens of thousands of criminal cases wait to be heard
News 7 February
Africa
Poor Kenyans likely to end up on death row: study
https://www.dw.com/en/poor-kenyans-likely-to-end-up-on-death-row-study/a-64600740
Americas
El Salvador’s Super Prison
https://theatlasnews.co/politics/2023/02/06/el-salvadors-super-prison/
US - After Decades in Prison, Should Adults Convicted as Teens Get A Second Chance? A Growing Number of State Laws Say Yes
https://theappeal.org/second-look-sentencing-reform-cordell-miller/
US (Delaware) - Judge Upholds Punitive Damage Award in Prison Strip Search
US (Vermont) - Vt. Senate bill would eliminate ‘life without parole’ prison sentence
https://www.wcax.com/2023/02/06/vt-senate-bill-would-eliminate-life-without-parole-prison-sentence/
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners set to be held in police cells due to overcrowding
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-64545715
Ireland - Women's wing at Limerick Prison has 50 prisoners despite 28-bed capacity
Oceania
First prisoners moved into new prison in New Caledonia
News 4-6 February
Africa
Zimbabwe - Prisons Decongest Chikurubi Female Prison
https://www.zimeye.net/2023/02/05/prisons-decongest-chikurubi-female-prison/
Americas
Catholics press for prison reform in post-Bolsonaro Brazil
Jamaica - Alternative justice programme to be expanded
https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20230206/alternative-justice-programme-be-expanded
US - 9th Circuit upholds California prison reforms, citing abuse of inmates with disabilities
US - Vermont is shutting down some prison work programs
https://vtdigger.org/2023/02/03/vermont-is-shutting-down-some-prison-work-programs/
US - Calls grow for Louisiana to stop sending kids to adult prison
https://www.courthousenews.com/calls-grow-for-louisiana-to-stop-sending-kids-to-adult-prison/
Asia
India - 672,000 cases pending in district, subordinate courts for 20 yrs: Rijiju
India - 1236 sick, elderly prisoners set free in past 11 months in Uttar Pradesh
India - 'Jail restaurants' in Bihar catch the fancy of people to dine ‘behing bars’
Iran’s supreme leader pardons ‘tens of thousands’ of prisoners
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/2/5/iran-supreme-leader-pardons-tens-of-thousands-of-prisoners
Europe
'Own prisons, own penal code': Flemish Minister wants to split Belgium's justice system
Denmark - Record waiting time in court for victims seeking justice
https://cphpost.dk/2023-02-03/news/record-waiting-time-in-courts-for-victims-seeking-justice/
Ireland - Inquest jury recommends medical care review at Cork Prison
https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2023/0203/1353676-inquest-medical-care-cork-prison/
Jersey - Plans to be submitted for a prisoner-staffed coffee shop
Oceania
Australia - Queensland’s draconian approach to youth justice sets kids up to fail
News 3 February
Americas
US - Students learn alongside incarcerated classmates at Washington State Penitentiary
Asia
India - Consider Modifying Prisoners’ Bail Conditions if Bonds Not Furnished Within a Month: SC to Courts
Malaysia - Prisons Dept takes measure to reduce overcrowding and recidivism
UAE - Dubai jail inmates’ cookbook released at Emirates Airlines Literature Festival
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners’ mental and physical health at ‘historically low levels’
https://www.thejusticegap.com/prisoners-mental-and-physical-health-at-historically-low-levels/
England and Wales - Prison with blood-stained cell and scratched walls is ‘worst ever seen’ by inspector
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/women-prison-eastwood-park-cells-b2274708.html
England and Wales - Prison challenged to meet young people’s complex needs at HMYOI Wetherby
Ireland - 'Grave concern' at prison overcrowding as inmates sleep on floors
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41063390.html
Irish prisons full at ‘watershed moment’ for penal policy
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/irish-prisons-full-at-watershed-moment-for-penal-policy
Italian anarchist’s hunger strike rekindles debate over harsh prison regime
Oceania
Australia - ROGS: Indigenous overrepresentation in ACT justice system worsening
https://canberraweekly.com.au/rogs-indigenous-overrepresentation-in-act-justice-system-worsening/
News 2 February
Americas
US - DOJ report outlines steps to limit solitary confinement in prisons, as its use only increases under Biden
https://news.yahoo.com/doj-report-outlines-steps-limit-171229085.html
US - Massachusetts prisoners who donate organs may get less prison time
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-64488678
US - Georgia Prison Crisis Worsens Amid Federal Investigations
https://theappeal.org/georgia-prisons-crisis-doj-federal-investigation/
US - Florida could end unanimous jury requirement for executions
https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/florida-end-unanimous-jury-requirement-executions-96840774
Asia
India - SC issues guidelines to ensure prisoners are not held up despite getting bail
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Insufficient’ prison officer apprenticeships found at Sodexo
https://feweek.co.uk/insufficient-prison-officer-apprenticeships-found-at-sodexo/
England and Wales - 'Dirty' HMP Wymott prison where unvaccinated inmates wait 'three years for counselling'
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/dirty-hmp-wymott-prison-unvaccinated-26118883
England and Wales - Man at South London prison died after 1 day behind bars as jail staff didn't know CPR
https://www.mylondon.news/news/east-london-news/man-south-london-prison-died-26139057
News 1 February
Africa
Kenya - Courts to review cases of mothers in jail with children
Kenya Prisons Service Wants Salaries Increased By 150pc
https://allafrica.com/stories/202302010252.html
Americas
Canada - 192 Ontario jail deaths call for urgent action on staffing and drug screening: landmark report
El Salvador president unveils mega-prison for gangsters
https://insiderpaper.com/el-salvador-president-unveils-mega-prison-for-gangsters/
US - Prison, jail staff rarely face legal consequences after sex abuse of inmates, report finds
Asia
India - Union Budget: Govt to support to poor prisoners unable to afford bail amounts
India - Maharashtra: State prisons to become manufacturing hubs; goods produced by inmates to be made available online
Europe
Ireland - Ministers 'committed' to diverting people with mental health issues away from prison
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41060879.html
Northern Ireland - Maghaberry Prison ‘Stitch in Time Gang’ crocheting hats for premature babies
Oceania
Unsentenced prisoners make up a third of Australia’s prison population as bail refusals boom
News 31 January
Africa
Kenya - Govt pushes for plea bargain to decongest prisons
Americas
US - Federal Bureau Of Prisons Set To End Home Confinement Under CARES Act
US - Hundreds of prison releases delayed after ADOC fails to notify victims
US - Bill that would restore right to vote for Minnesotans on probation, parole nears House vote
US (Hawaii) - Lawmakers Want More Information Made Public On Inmate Deaths In State Prisons And Jails
Asia
India - Delhi’s prisons have a plan for inmates: Stop court visits, move hearings online
Secretive Saudi executions leave families in the dark
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-64338876
Europe
Fiala Calls For Reduction In Czech Prison Population
https://brnodaily.com/2023/01/31/news/politics/fiala-calls-for-reduction-in-czech-prison-population/
England and Wales - Urgent action needed to curb rise in prison deaths linked to spice, say UK researchers
England and Wales - New drive to cut number of women prisoners
England and Wales - Dominic Raab’s changes to open prison conditions ‘making public less safe’, Parole Board chief says
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/dominic-raab-prisons-open-parole-b2272703.html
England and Wales - HMP Foston Hall: Plans for new open blocks at England's 'most violent' women's prison
https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/local-news/hmp-foston-hall-plans-new-8093919
Jersey - La Moye prison wings renamed in modernisation programme
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-64453747
Oceania
Australia - Number of Aboriginal Tasmanians in prison more than doubles in a decade
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-31/tasmanian-indigenous-incarceration-rising/101907924
News 28 – 30 January
Americas
Canada’s top court takes a tough stance on mandatory minimum sentences
Canada - Doubling of inmate deaths in Ontario prompts call for correctional oversight body
Leaked database reveals prison abuses under El Salvador’s state of emergency
Jamaica - Rehabilitation for incarcerated should be top priority
https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20230130/rehabilitation-incarcerated-should-be-top-priority
Asia
Bangladesh - Deaths of inmates in prisons must be investigated
https://www.newagebd.net/article/193043/deaths-of-inmates-in-prisons-must-be-investigated
India - Imperative To Ensure Proactive Legal Help In Prisons: Report
India - In 2022, 165 death penalties handed out by trial courts, highest since 2000
Death row inmates' lawyers call for discussion, less secrecy on executions in Japan
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230130/p2a/00m/0na/004000c
Europe
Scottish Prison Service halts movement of all transgender prisoners while rules are reviewed
Oceania
Australia - ‘Complete, unmitigated disaster’: inquest into Veronica Nelson’s death urges overhaul of ‘discriminatory’ Victorian bail laws
News 27 January
Africa
Ghana - Prison congestion to reduce with the passage of Sentencing Act — Godfred Dame
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1208384/prison-congestion-to-reduce-with-the-passage-of.html
Americas
Hundreds of children packed in El Salvador's overcrowded prisons -rights group
Guyana - Crime down, but Prison population up -Benn tells Budget debate
https://newssourcegy.com/crime/crime-down-but-prison-population-up-benn-tells-budget-debate/
US - Texas prison hunger strike over solitary confinement enters third week
US - Texas death row inmates sue state over ‘brutal’ solitary confinement conditions
US - New York’s Bill to Decriminalize Low-Level Drug Possession
https://filtermag.org/new-york-decriminalize-drugs/
Asia
India - IOC launches programme to train juvenile prison inmates
Europe
More than 200 people die in prison custody every year in England, Wales
News 26 January
Africa
Overcrowdings in Ghanaian Prisons impacting negatively – Prisons
Americas
US - DOJ says Louisiana prisons hold inmates beyond their release dates
US - Ombudsman proposed to ensure independent oversight of Md. Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services
US - Hawaii legislators want to expand program to keep mentally ill charged with minor crimes out of jail
Asia
Bangladesh - Dhaka calls for creating a victim-friendly criminal justice system
Jordan to build new JD 70 million prison in Azraq
https://en.royanews.tv/news/39507/2023-01-26
Malaysia - Help inmates with long jail terms file appeals, judge tells prisons dept
Europe
England and Wales - Update on changes to transgender prisoner policy framework
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/update-on-changes-to-transgender-prisoner-policy-framework
England and Wales - Crown court judges to address court backlogs through game-changing guidelines
England and Wales - Campaigners fume as government to decide on Lancashire's new 'super prison' on its own accord
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/campaigners-fume-government-decide-lancashires-26067593
Gangland contracts worth £2.8m put on Scottish prisoners
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-64402666
Oceania
New Zealand - Maximum security prisoners kept in cells for three days, breaching human rights
News 25 January
Africa
Kenya - KNCHR revives calls to abolish death penalty
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2023-01-24-knchr-revives-calls-to-abolish-death-penalty/
High Number Of Inmates Awaiting Trial Causing Congestion, Prison Breaks In Nigeria
Americas
Jamaica - Gov't, Opposition agree on longer prison time for murder
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/govt-opposition-agree-on-longer-prison-time-for-murder/
Asia
Bangladesh - People in prisons have rights to health care: HC observes
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/court/people-prisons-have-rights-health-care-hc-observes-573314
India - Kerala prisoners released for good conduct become productive part of system, shows data
Iran: Sixty Executions in One Month, 14 in 6 Days
https://www.ncr-iran.org/en/news/iran-protests/iran-sixty-executions-in-one-month-14-in-6-days/
Yemen: End the male guardianship restriction for releasing women from prisons
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Potentially risky’ people being released after years on remand, watchdog warns
England and Wales - Education of Children in Custody Failing to Improve Post Pandemic, Inspectors Find
Oceania
Australia - Parklea Prison Officers to Strike Over Safety Concerns
https://www.miragenews.com/parklea-prison-officers-to-strike-over-safety-934897/
Australians urged to ditch ‘tough on crime’ mindset for youth justice as it does not work
News 24 January
Americas
Guantanamo: Covid-19 cases rise to one-third of detainee population, report says
Report: Native Americans Significantly Overrepresented In US Prisons
Asia
Rock the jailhouse: Too many Indians are locked up under dozens of obsolete laws. Legal reform must precede prison reform
Philippines - Jail guards keep part of money sent to inmates, says BuCor chief
Thailand - 29 convicts to kick off monitoring initiative
Europe
England and Wales - Inspection at HMP Maidstone praises new governor but highlights 'barely fit for purpose' cells and lack of translators
Irish child justice system under UN spotlight in Geneva
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/irish-child-justice-system-under-un-spotlight-in-geneva
Scotland - Court backlog reduced by 30% during 2022
Oceania
Australia - ‘Cruel and inhumane’: Coroner’s urgent demand on bail reform
News 21 – 23 January
Africa
Kenyan prisoners on death row weren’t deterred by the threat of the death penalty: new research findings
Nigeria - Prison Congestion: FG, others urged to activate Non-Custodial Special Fund
Americas
US - Death penalty paused in Arizona pending review into botched executions
US - Tennessee fires officials after damning death penalty report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-64347169
US - Survivors recount rampant abuse at Los Angeles’ juvenile jails: ‘Helpless, hopeless, lost and lonely’
Asia
Cambodia - Ministries work towards community service sentences to reduce prison overcrowding
India - PM Modi calls for prison reforms and repeal of obsolete laws
India - Tihar jail launches skill training for post-release rehab of inmates
Europe
Cyprus - Another 11 prison guards prosecuted for criminal offenses
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, December 2022
Jersey - ‘Different solution’ needed after child held in prison
Northern Ireland - More than 300 drug finds in north's prisons during lockdown
Project helping Welsh women in prison stay in contact with their children gets funding boost
News 20 January
Americas
Canada - Court-ordered community hours go towards healing in Indigenous-led justice efforts in Montreal
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/mohawk-cree-teepee-justice-healing-kahnawake-1.6717817
US - What the US’ Mass Incarceration Regime Costs Black Women
https://nonprofitquarterly.org/what-the-us-mass-incarceration-regime-costs-black-women/
Lawsuit Alleges Federal Death-Row Conditions Violate U.S. Constitution and Human Rights Treaties
Europe
England and Wales - Ex-criminals to be given jobs as West Midlands construction giant makes key pledge
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/ex-criminals-given-jobs-west-26009711
Ireland – Prison overcrowding: 50 inmates currently sleeping on the floor
https://www.newstalk.com/news/prison-overcrowding-50-inmates-currently-sleeping-on-the-floor-1426517
Rapists in Spain to wear GPS-enabled tracking bands, victims to be alerted if they are close-by
Oceania
Australia risks UN human rights blacklisting as states fail to meet prison obligations
Australia - ‘People before profits’: Victoria to ditch private health providers in women’s prisons
News 19 January
Africa
Ghana - Some youths are in prison because of GHC250 – Prison boss cries, begs for help to decongest
Americas
US - Using Zoom To Connect Returning Citizens To Resources And Community
US (Texas) - 'I'm not an animal:' Inmates endure a second week of hunger as they challenge prison living conditions
Europe
England and Wales - Why are our prisons still in lockdown?
https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/why-are-our-prisons-still-in-lockdown/
England and Wales - Record number of neighbourhood criminals tagged to cut crime
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/record-number-of-neighbourhood-criminals-tagged-to-cut-crime
520 children under the age of 6 in prison with their mothers in Turkey: report
Oceania
‘People don’t want to spend money on law breakers’: staff shortages send New Zealand’s prisons to crisis point
News 18 January
Africa
Uganda - Sh19b needed to decongest prisons
https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/sh19b-needed-to-decongest-prisons-151833
Americas
US - Assaults reach record highs in New York prisons
https://romesentinel.com/stories/assaults-reach-record-highs-in-new-york-prisons,159686
US - Prison parole denied for 90% of Alabama inmates, a new low
Asia
Bangladesh - DGHS DG summoned for not recruiting prison doctors
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/court/hc-summons-dghs-dg-not-recruiting-prison-doctors-569338
‘Prison after prison’: Debts trap foreigners in Vietnamese jails
Europe
England and Wales - Werrington youth prison has highest staff sickness rates in England
Greece - President decries delays in justice system
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1202451/president-decries-delays-in-justice-system/
Oceania
Australia - Link between prison cell size and infectious disease transmission informs law change
Australia - Victoria misses deadline for UN’s anti-torture protocols as prison pressure mounts
News 17 January
Africa
Rwanda - RCS Starts Decongestion Of Muhanga Prison
https://www.ktpress.rw/2023/01/rcs-starts-congestion-of-muhanga-prison/
Europe
England and Wales - Prison system failing to support rising numbers of remand prisoners
England and Wales - Isle of Wight jail failing to prepare prisoners for release
Netherlands - Ultra-secure prison to get its own courtroom to reduce prison break opportunity
https://nltimes.nl/2023/01/17/ultra-secure-prison-get-its-courtroom-reduce-prison-break-opportunity
Oceania
Australia - Women in prison
https://lsj.com.au/articles/women-in-prison/
News 14-16 January
Africa
Nigeria - NCoS to fortify prisons’ security with N500m
https://punchng.com/ncos-to-fortify-prisons-security-with-n500m/
South Africa - Overcrowding in prisons continues to be a problem, says Popcru
Americas
Canada - ‘Why was he in a maximum-security prison?’ Advocates want answers on immigration detainee’s death in custody
Ecuadorian security forces regain control of El Inca prison after inmate’s death
US - More than 70 Texas prisoners are 3 days into a hunger strike protesting harsh solitary confinement practices
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/01/13/texas-prison-hunger-strike-solitary/
US - In Nevada Prisons, Use-Of-Force Overhaul Stalls
US - Incarcerated People in Washington Plead to Limit Use of Solitary Confinement
Asia
India - Mental health, hygiene facilities: Women's panel's suggestion to jail officials for female inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Prison could be expanded to take in more inmates
https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/local-news/prison-could-expanded-take-more-8024359
England and Wales - Prisoner dies at HMP Chelmsford as investigation launched
https://www.essexlive.news/news/essex-news/prisoner-dies-hmp-chelmsford-investigation-8033709
Oceania
Australia - Victoria’s prisons a pressure cooker as staff recruitment falls short
Australia - NSW maximum security prisoners recycle 80 tonnes of waste, donate proceeds to charity
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-15/south-coast-prison-recycling-program-gives-back/101856602
News 13 January
Americas
Canada - Ottawa laying groundwork for Indigenous justice systems, says Lametti
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/lametti-caron-indigenous-justice-strategy-1.6712300
US - Working Out The Bugs On The Bureau Of Prisons First Step Act Calculator
US - Federal Cannabis Sentences Drop Substantially Since 2014
https://www.greenmarketreport.com/federal-cannabis-sentences-drop-substantially-since-2014/
Asia
Three Things India Can Do To Reduce Undertrial Prisoner Population
https://thewire.in/rights/india-undertrial-prisoners-solutions
Europe
England and Wales - Murderer sues prison service for nearly £1m in human rights test case claiming his cell is too cold
England and Wales - Road rage thug who beat up lorry driver walks free as judge warns 'prisons are full'
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/labour-slams-prison-cell-cuts-28941486
News 12 January
Americas
Sint Maarten - Prison strike: Inmates demand their human rights be respected
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/prison-strike-inmates-demand-their-human-rights-be-respected
US - Garland Takes on Mandatory Minimums
https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/garland-takes-mandatory-minimums
‘The nation’s executioners’: US supreme court slams door on death row petitions
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jan/12/us-supreme-court-death-row-executions
US - Federal Judge Orders Arizona Prison Overhaul Due To Unconstitutional Conditions
Asia
Thailand - Dredging project to combat future floods manned by prison inmates
Europe
Prison staff in Belgium go on 24-hour-long strike
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/prison-staff-in-belgium-go-on-24-hour-long-strike/2785026
England and Wales - Ofsted hit out at Peterborough prison after jail reduces range of courses on offer
England and Wales - Staff shortages result in ‘inhumane’ treatment of Dartmoor prisoners
Hungary - Circular Economy Plant Set Up in Szeged Prison
https://hungarytoday.hu/circular-economy-plant-set-up-in-szeged-prison/
Torture, inhuman treatment and conditions in Turkish prisons: 2022 in Review
https://stockholmcf.org/torture-inhuman-treatment-and-conditions-in-turkish-prisons-2022-in-review/
Oceania
Australia - Calls for overhaul as Victoria continues to outsource prison health care to private companies
News 11 January
Africa
Rwanda - Gov’t to save Rwf15b annually in prisons decongestion
Americas
Canada - Inmate reportedly died of heart attack after use of pepper spray, spit hood in Montreal jail
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/spring-inmate-documents-1.6708752
US - Native Americans are Incarcerated at the Highest Rate, New Report Reveals
Asia
India - Mental health of prison inmates to be evaluated
Malaysia - Govt reviewing substitute sentences for mandatory death penalty
Philippines president orders ‘decongestion’ of prisons
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/philippines-president-orders-decongestion-of-prisons/2784157
Europe
England and Wales - New bag scanners at prisons detect heroin in washing-up liquid, cannabis in curry
England and Wales - Winchester Prison has 'unacceptable' living conditions says new report
England and Wales - Sex offenders at Brixton Prison could be released without adequate efforts to halt offending
Reform urged for ‘disjointed’ bail and remand system in Northern Ireland
Oceania
Australia - Victorian prisoners denied parole due to lack of accommodation during housing crisis
Incarceration rate in French Polynesia remains higher than in mainland France
News 10 January
Americas
US - Federal inmates would pay more to victims under new Justice Dept. rule
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/01/09/prisoner-accounts-new-rules-victims/
US - ‘It’s not just a jail break’: Juvenile prison populations reach all-time lows
US - Texas prisoners launching hunger strike to protest state’s harsh solitary confinement practices
https://www.texastribune.org/2023/01/09/texas-prisons-hunger-strike-solitary/
Asia
Brutal torture of over a dozen prisoners inside Bahrain’s Jau Prison: Report
https://thecradle.co/Article/News/20182
Philippines - Marcos Jr. orders DOJ to continue releasing prisoners qualified for parole
Europe
England and Wales - New prison podcast shows what life is really like behind the walls of Woodhill jail in Milton Keynes
Ireland - Prisoners take part in Men’s Shed initiative to help prepare for life outside
News 7-9 January
Africa
The corruption problem in Mauritian prisons
https://allafrica.com/stories/202301090131.html
Zambia: Abolition of the death penalty ‘a historic milestone’
https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/01/1132212
Americas
US - More than 20,000 books banned in Florida prisons
https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2023/01/09/florida-prisons-book-ban-marshall-project
US - California Voice: Tracking COVID contractions, deaths in state’s jails more difficult than it should be
Asia
India - Now, all inmates of Delhi prisons to get hot water, prisoners above 65 to be given mattresses, Delhi LG instructs officials
Iranian judiciary orders investigation into rape in prisons
https://minutemirror.com.pk/iranian-judiciary-orders-investigation-into-rape-in-prisons-84449/
Malaysia - Resolve fate of 1,300 death row prisoners, govt urged
One prisoner killed, more than 60 wounded in Myanmar prison riot
Pakistan - 52 prisoners still in jails despite serving out sentences
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2394644/52-prisoners-still-in-jails-despite-serving-out-sentences
Philippines - 4,907 BuCor inmates to participate in voter registration
https://politics.com.ph/2023/01/09/4907-bucor-inmates-to-participate-in-voter-registration/
Europe
England and Wales - Government U-turns after 1,000 cell plan to tackle prison overcrowding was quietly cut in half
https://inews.co.uk/news/government-u-turn-1000-cell-prison-overcrowding-cut-2070328
England and Wales - Dartmoor Prison inmates locked up for 23 hours a day due to staff shortages
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/dartmoor-prison-inmates-locked-up-7998905
England and Wales - Investigation launched after another inmate dies at HMP Forest Bank
Italy - Prisons, one in 3 prisoners have a job (but the figure could double)
Scots prison scandal as more than 40 inmates die in jail over last year
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-prison-scandal-more-40-28901580
News 6 January
Africa
Malawi: 7 Inmates Test Positive for Covid-19 At Maula Prison
https://allafrica.com/stories/202301060006.html
Americas
Conditions Improve for Opposition Prisoners in Nicaragua
https://ticotimes.net/2023/01/05/conditions-improve-foropposition-prisoners-in-nicaragua
US - Biden signs bill aiming to ease costs for prison calls
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/biden-signs-bill-aiming-to-ease-costs-for-prison-calls
Asia
Fifteen Iranian Women Launch Hunger Strike In Prison Over Conditions
https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-women-launch-hunger-strike-prison-conditions/32211043.html
Europe
England and Wales - Dominic Raab accused of treating crime victims as ‘afterthought’ as justice system ‘crumbles’
Oceania
New Zealand - Jail population grows by 600, Corrections recruitment lags
News 5 January
Africa
Kenya - Prisons PS Calls for Release of Minors Held in Custody with Their Mothers
https://www.tuko.co.ke/politics/489290-prisons-ps-calls-for-release-of-minors/
Americas
Canada - Inquiry demanded into Montreal jail death after guards used pepper spray, spit hood
https://globalnews.ca/news/9387735/inquiry-montreal-jail-death/
In troubled Mexico prison, inmates ruled their cell blocks
https://drgnews.com/2023/01/04/in-troubled-mexico-prison-inmates-ruled-their-cell-blocks/
Europe
Northern Ireland - Belfast prisoner wins permission to challenge segregation and monitoring in NI jails
Inmates go on hunger strike to protest rights violations in prison in western Turkey
News 4 January 2023
Americas
Mexico prison break: Hunt for escapees turns deadly
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-64147790
Rising prices behind bars hammer imprisoned people in the US
US - More women are being detained as jail populations near pre-COVID levels
https://19thnews.org/2023/01/jail-population-pandemic-incarceration-rates-women/
US - Low staffing at prisons in Colorado leads to unsustainable working conditions
Asia
India - Visitors are indispensable for enforcement of fundamental rights of prisoners: Madras High Court issues directions on prison reform
Malaysia - Upgrades but no new prisons planned, says home minister Saifuddin
Myanmar to free 7000 prisoners on foundation day under amnesty
Europe
Guernsey Prison dealing with Covid outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx0l7q7995yo
Ireland - New palliative care centre to be built on Midlands Prison campus
Turkey - Justice Ministry issues new procedures to facilitate release of ill prisoners
News 22 December 2022 – 3 January 2023
Africa
Ghana - Pay attention to non-custodial sentencing to reduce overcrowding in prisons — Ambrose Nsarko to government
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1203966/pay-attention-to-non-custodial-sentencing-to-reduc.html
Liberia: Supreme Court Orders Release of Pre-trial Detainees due to Overcrowded Prisons
Zambia Becomes 25th Sub-Saharan African Nation to Abolish Death Penalty
Americas
Canada - Book club helps inmates at this Ontario women's prison connect and communicate
Mexico Prison Break Near US Border Leaves 17 Dead, Gang Leader on Run
US - Bill forcing feds to fix prison cameras is signed into law
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/joe-biden-ap-bill-washington-jon-ossoff-b2252126.html
US - ‘You’re a slave’: Inside Louisiana’s forced prison labor and a failed overhaul attempt
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2023/01/01/louisiana-prison-labor-ballot-slavery/
Europe
Belgium - 'Catastrophic' living conditions in Saint-Gilles Prison
https://www.brusselstimes.com/344990/catastrophic-living-conditions-in-saint-gilles-prison
England and Wales - ‘Overwhelmed’ justice system failing victims of crime, CPS chief warns
Italy prison suicides spike as post-COVID misery lingers
Northern Ireland - Community justice scheme hailed as alternative to short prison sentences
Scotland - Castle Huntly open prison underused, say inspectors
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-63877242
Inmates in a prison in central Turkey on 78th day of hunger strike: report
https://stockholmcf.org/inmates-in-a-prison-in-central-turkey-on-78th-day-of-hunger-strike-report/
News 21 December
Africa
Nigeria - Police, Magistrates begin training on prison decongestion
https://freedomonline.com.ng/police-magistrates-begin-training-on-prison-decongestion/
Americas
Starvation rations: Inmates are dying inside Haiti’s overcrowded prisons from lack of food
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article270206732.html
Paraguay jail break: Inmates escape through tunnel
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-64037003
U.S. Jail Population Increased While Prison Population Decreased in 2021
https://www.ojp.gov/news-release/us-jail-population-increased-while-prison-population-decreased-2021
US leads the world in long prison sentences: Study
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/us-leads-the-world-in-long-prison-sentences
US - Massachusetts agrees to reform prison conditions for mentally ill inmates
US - State rolling out digital tablets specifically designed for inmates across Texas prisons
US - Death at Mat-Su prison marks Alaska’s 18th person to die in custody this year
Asia
Another Prison Break in Lebanon … Over 100 Have Escaped Since August
https://themedialine.org/mideast-daily-news/26-prisoners-escape-lebanese-jail-8-rearrested-2/
547 detainees died in Syrian regime prisons in 2022
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20221220-547-detainees-died-in-syrian-regime-prisons-in-2022/
Europe
England and Wales - Legal aid awareness training for prison staff
https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/legal-aid-awareness-training-for-prison-staff/5114633.article
Scotland - Job fears as HMP Greenock closure rated 'almost inevitable'
News 20 December
Africa
Gambia - ‘Human Rights Abuse Prevails In Prison’
https://www.voicegambia.com/2022/12/19/human-rights-abuse-prevails-in-prison/
Ghana - Minority demands upward adjustment of feeding grant for prison inmates
https://www.myjoyonline.com/minority-demands-upward-adjustment-of-feeding-grant-for-prison-inmates/
Americas
Antigua - Prisoners at His Majesty’s Prison riot due to improper treatment and conditions
US - Over 25,000 People in Prison Await Decisions on Their Clemency Applications
US - State auditor: Vermont prison system mishandled incarcerated people’s grievances
Asia
Kyrgyz Prison Officials Rebuff Calls For Examination Of Hunger-Striking Activists
https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyz-prison-officials-rebuff-calls-hunger-striking-activists/32183375.html
Philippines - DOJ seeks clemency for 2,000 prisoners to ease Bilibid congestion
Europe
England and Wales - Staffing issues sees HMP Norwich facing 'alarming violence'
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/23202137.staffing-issues-sees-hmp-norwich-facing-alarming-violence/
England and Wales - Coroner calls for CPR training at Yorkshire prison after inmate death
Oceania
Australia - NT prison officers feel unsafe, depressed
https://www.hawkesburygazette.com.au/story/8026324/nt-prison-officers-feel-unsafe-depressed/?cs=12
News 17 – 19 December
Africa
Zimbabwe - Govt in the dock over mentally ill prisoners; some have served their sentences but remain in jail
Americas
Guatemala looks to start building maximum security prison in 2023
https://www.bnamericas.com/en/news/guatemala-looks-to-start-building-maximum-security-prison-in-2023
US - Exhaustive 50-State Report Analyzes True Cost of Prison and Jail Phone Calls
US - When a prison is known as the 'rape club,' our justice system has a credibility problem
US (Washington) - Three WA watchdog prison reports remain unreleased to the public
https://crosscut.com/politics/2022/12/three-wa-watchdog-prison-reports-remain-unreleased-public
Asia
Women lack basics in crisis-hit Lebanon's crowded prisons
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, November 2022
England and Wales - Winchester prison inmates say they are 'absolutely freezing' in 'horrible conditions' due to ongoing heating issues
England and Wales - London gang members kept in cells for 21 hours a day to stop postcode wars in prison
https://www.mylondon.news/news/south-london-news/london-gang-members-kept-cells-25786161
Ninety people detained in the Irish prison system for more than a year without being convicted of any crime
Luxembourg - Human Rights Commission pleads for humane treatment of young detainees
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/2006517.html
Scotland - Prisoner complaints on the rise at HMP Grampian with issues over property, covid and staff
https://www.aberdeenlive.news/news/aberdeen-news/prisoner-complaints-rise-hmp-grampian-7925942
Oceania
Australia - Yoorrook Justice Commission hears Victorian bail laws are criminalising Aboriginal people, especially women
News 16 December
Africa
How we got Uganda to strike out a colonial law criminalising poor people
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/5050/uganda-reverse-colonial-law-criminalising-poor-people/
Americas
US - Nevada considers commuting all death sentences to life in prison
US (Wisconsin) - 'Extended supervision' includes rules for inmates to transition into society. Often, the rules just land them back in prison.
Asia
India - CHRI report reveals ‘woeful infrastructure, lack of toilets’ in Karnataka prisons
Prisoners Will Now be Able to Become Doctors in Pakistan
https://propakistani.pk/2022/12/16/prisoners-will-now-be-able-to-become-doctors-in-pakistan/
Europe
England and Wales - Urgent action to overhaul Exeter prison
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/urgent-action-to-overhaul-exeter-prison
England and Wales - HMP Fosse Way: Plans to expand new prison approved
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-63997007
Scotland - Cornton Vale women's prison on final countdown ahead of 2023 closure
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/cornton-vale-womens-prison-final-28742585
Oceania
Australia - Victims and people harmed by crime say restorative justice helped them heal, now there are calls to make it more available
News 15 December
Africa
Overcrowded Liberian prison turns away new inmates
https://www.myjoyonline.com/overcrowded-liberian-prison-turns-away-new-inmates/
Americas
Canada - 14 inmates at women's prison in Kitchener test positive for COVID-19
St Kitts & Nevis - HMP Rehabilitation breaks new ground with successful pilot programme in Welding and Mechanic
https://www.sknvibes.com/news/newsdetails.cfm/120756
US - People Sexually Abused in Prison Can Now Apply for Early Release
https://news.yahoo.com/people-sexually-abused-prison-now-214600578.html
US - Girls Embracing Mothers Releases Report Showcasing Shocking Lack of Data Collected on Children With Incarcerated Parents
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/girls-embracing-mothers-releases-report-140000304.html
US - These inmates have access to better facilities. The price? They’re 3,000 miles from home
Europe
German prisons release more than 1,000 prisoners in Christmas amnesty
Scotland looks to end incarceration of under-18s in YOIs
https://www.thenational.scot/news/23192238.scotland-looks-end-incarceration-under-18s-yois/
Oceania
Australia - Prison officers to strike over safety concerns and poor pay
https://www.miragenews.com/prison-officers-to-strike-over-safety-concerns-916456/
New Zealand - Costly cellphone jamming technology ditched in all prisons
News 14 December
Africa
Kenya - Hope for inmates as Judiciary kicks off programme to decongest cells
Judicial Strike Paralyzes Courts Operation in Malawi
https://www.voanews.com/a/judicial-strike-paralyzes-courts-operation-in-malawi/6874874.html
Nigeria - Decongestion of Correctional Centres and Dispensation of Justice
Americas
COVID Outbreak at Belize Central Prison
https://www.lovefm.com/covid-outbreak-at-belize-central-prison/
Latin America - Electronic Monitoring: A New Form of Punishment for Many Women
https://www.wola.org/analysis/electronic-monitoring-punishment-women/
Male prison employees assault women in at least two-thirds of U.S. prisons
US - Oregon governor commutes death sentences to life in prison
US - Prison overdoses in New York outpace rest of nation
US - Alabama inmate “literally baked to death” in overheated prison cell, says lawsuit
Asia
Long forgotten: India’s pretrial and undertrial prisoners
Europe
Cyprus - The route to getting out of prison early
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/12/14/the-route-to-getting-out-of-prison-early/
England and Wales - Work, education and training at HMP Northumberland fails to meet expected standard, reveals inspection report
Scotland - Almost 70 cells at rundown HMP Greenock not being used
News 13 December
Americas
Barbados - Public visit resume at Dodds Prison
https://www.nationnews.com/2022/12/13/public-visit-resume-dodds-prison/
Jamaica - Power play hampering take-up of alternative dispute resolution methods
US - Federal prisons are supposed to provide addiction medication. Prisoners are punished for using it.
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/federal-prison-suboxone-addiction-medication-rcna60946
Europe
England and Wales - Black prisoners and white guards ‘should cook together to break down barriers’
England and Wales - HMP Wealstun prisoner died after broken gate delayed ambulance
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-63947072
England and Wales - HMP Bristol prisoners left without heating in freezing weather conditions due to 'intermittent heating issues'
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/hmp-bristol-prisoners-left-without-7922337
Scotland - People in prison awaiting trial at 'crisis' point
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-63621680
News 10 – 12 December
Africa
Tanzania: President Pardons 1,631 Inmates
https://allafrica.com/stories/202212120123.html
Americas
Brazen jailbreak in Mexico highlights criminal immunity
US - Incarcerated People Forced to do Dangerous Work For “Slave” Wages at Height of Pandemic
https://theintercept.com/2022/12/12/covid-new-york-prison-labor/
US - Some Prisoners Remain Behind Bars in Louisiana Despite Being Deemed Free
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/11/us/politics/louisiana-prison-overdetention.html
US - California jails failed to monitor or report COVID data. Some didn’t even bother
Asia
Malaysia - Time to review natural life jail term, say lawyers
Philippines - BJMP eases rules for contact visitation in prison facilities
Europe
England and Wales - Prison Reform Trust calls for more support for 17,000 children whose mothers are in prison
England and Wales - Black prisoners seven times more likely to be pepper-sprayed
https://insidetime.org/black-prisoners-seven-times-more-likely-to-be-pepper-sprayed/
England and Wales - Concerns raised as HMP Humber staff 'missed opportunities' before prisoner found dead in his cell
Ireland - Prison visits return to normal after two years of Covid restrictions
https://www.rte.ie/news/2022/1212/1341253-prison-visits/
Ireland - Inmates break prison rules on average once every hour
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41025968.html
News 9 December
Americas
Canada - 3 of 4 Saskatchewan correctional centres overcapacity
Asia
22 officers at central Japan prison found to have abused inmates
Lebanon detainees stuck in limbo as judges' strike drags on
Prisons Management in Pakistan
https://dailytimes.com.pk/1037263/prisons-management-in-pakistan/
Philippines - BuCor, CHR to assign human rights officers in jail facilities
UN to help enhance skills of inmates in Sri Lanka
https://colombogazette.com/2022/12/09/un-to-help-enhance-skills-of-inmates-in-sri-lanka/
Europe
Scotland - MSPs say more funding must be found for justice sector
https://www.scottishlegal.com/articles/msps-say-more-funding-must-be-found-for-justice-sector
News 8 December
Americas
Jamaica - A new prison requires new thinking
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/a-new-prison-requires-new-thinking/
US - Study finds previously abused inmates more likely to perpetrate violence in prison
US - California announces plans to close 2 prisons, deactivate facilities at 6 others
US (New Mexico) - Lawmakers to consider more limits on solitary confinement in prisons and jails
US - Why 14 inmates have died in Atlanta jails this year, four times more than last year
Asia
Singapore - Prison Service trialling automated urine collection and screening system
Europe
Danish watchdog to scrutinise conditions for children in women’s prison
Strip-search is an ongoing practice in Turkish prisons, opposition deputy says
News 7 December
Africa
Malawi - Overcrowding in prisons fueling spread of HIV and TB
https://malawi24.com/2022/12/07/overcrowding-in-prisons-fueling-spread-of-hiv-and-tb/
Americas
‘These are not crimes’: women in Argentina facing jail for obstetric emergencies
US - Black, Hispanic people more often disciplined in NY prisons, Inspector General says
Asia
India - Undertrials languishing in prison despite release order; SC wants a better system to keep tab
Europe
England and Wales - Lancaster Farms prison told to improve 'purposeful activity'
Rights court upholds Estonia decision to block violent prisoner from voting
Nearly 2,500 young people encountered the criminal justice system last year in Northern Ireland
Huge backlog in offenders doing community payback in Scotland
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-63862566
Oceania
Australia - Violence far lower at Macquarie Prison where serious offenders enjoy more freedoms
‘Torturous behaviour’: hundreds join class action against Western Australian juvenile justice centre
Australia - ‘A life changing experience’: how adult literacy programs can keep First Nations people out of the criminal justice system
News 6 December
Americas
US - Prison COVID Policies Fell Short. Incarcerated Activists Fight for Their Lives.
US - Inmates at Nevada prison go on hunger strike, alleging poor conditions
Europe
England and Wales - Children in care 10 times more likely to end up in prison by age 24, figures suggest
News 3- 5 December
Americas
Canada - People with stimulant use disorder at high risk for overdose after jail: study
https://o.canada.com/news/overdose-risk-increases-after-prison-study
Cuba: New criminal code is a chilling prospect for 2023 and beyond
US - I have no problem hiring ex-offenders. But they’re being let down
US - Pandemic-fueled federal court case backlog less than expected: study
At many U.S. jails, keeping in touch with loved ones is unaffordable
US (New York) - To Implement a New Law, Prisons Likely Broke Another
https://www.nysfocus.com/2022/12/02/new-york-prison-halt-solitary/
US - Why Almost No One’s Being Let Out of Prison in Alabama
https://www.vice.com/en/article/88q7pv/why-alabama-parole-board-denying-incarcerated-people
Asia
India - More Open Jails needed to reform prisons, say experts
https://assamtribune.com/national/more-open-jails-needed-to-reform-prisons-say-experts-1450989
Europe
England and Wales - Inspector warns of reoffending risk as prisoners locked in cells 23 hours a day
England and Wales - Dominic Raab urged to release prisoners jailed under abolished IPP scheme
England and Wales - Furness MP presents Bill to change prison release day
https://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/23166579.furness-mp-presents-bill-change-prison-release-day/
England and Wales - Government steps up plans to improve prisoners’ literacy skills
https://feweek.co.uk/government-steps-up-plans-to-improve-prisoners-literacy-skills/
Isle of Man - Trial for prison inmates who were isolated during lockdown
Northern Ireland - Prisons are failing to protect inmates from self-harm, say campaigners
Oceania
Australia - Northern Territory prisons facing 'unprecedented pressures' and record inmate numbers
New Zealand - Prison violence and the brutal realities we should care more about
News 2 December
Americas
Canada’s prison needle exchange program failing amid poor rollout: advocates
https://globalnews.ca/news/9318312/canada-prison-needle-exchange/
US - Prison Labor Reformers Hang Hopes on State Anti-Slavery Measures
US - BOP finalizes moving inmates from private prisons
https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/bop-finalizes-moving-inmates-private-prisons/story?id=94281403
Europe
England and Wales - Prisons are an overflowing, squalid, absurd waste of money. So why do the public want more of them?
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/dec/02/prisons-money-sentences-public-services
England and Wales - Prisoner release was considered at start of Covid pandemic – Hancock
England and Wales - Ministers warned that Bullingdon prison 'chronically overcrowded'
Seventy-three prisoners died in Türkiye's prisons in a year
Oceania
Australia - Katherine community asked to back justice reinvestment project to tackle crime
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-02/justice-reinvestment-katherine-crime-meeting/101725398
News 1 December 2022
Americas
Canada - Nationwide Rollout of Prison Needle Exchange Program Concerns Union
Canada - Long-awaited reforms to criminal sentencing are also sound public health policy
US - First Step Act Delays Continue In The Bureau Of Prisons And People Are Locked Up Beyond What The Law States
Europe
England and Wales - MoJ requests urgent use of 400 police cells for male prisoners
Why deaths of 123 prisoners in Scottish jails remain unexplained
Oceania
‘Squandered opportunity’: Australian prisoners are being denied education
https://www.crikey.com.au/2022/12/01/amc-prison-denied-education-report/
News 30 November
Africa
South Africa’s prisons are a breeding ground for the spread of TB. Our model shows how
Americas
The U.S. Prison System Doesn't Value True Justice
https://time.com/6236494/criminal-exoneration-prison-system-feeds-on-innocent/
Asia
Bangladesh - Govt must rid jails of crowding, poor health care
https://www.newagebd.net/article/187804/govt-must-rid-jails-of-crowding-poor-health-care
India - Direct jail authorities to give data on undertrials in prison due to non-fulfilment of bail conditions: Supreme Court to States
Saudi Arabia resumes executions of drug offenders after two-year reprieve
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2022/11/30/saudi-arabia-executions-human-rights/
Singapore tightens rules on last-minute death penalty appeals
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/11/30/singapore-tightens-rules-on-death-penalty-appeals
Europe
Iceland - Over 60 Prison Sentences Expired Due to Lack of Cell Space
https://www.icelandreview.com/news/over-60-prison-sentences-expired-due-to-lack-of-cell-space/
Third prison in Luxembourg to be inaugurated this Wednesday
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1998698.html
Deaths in Scottish prisons at record high
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-63780998
Scotland - Prisoners taught how to set up businesses in bid to cut re-conviction rate
https://www.insider.co.uk/news/prisoners-taught-how-set-up-28611265
News 29 November
Americas
Canada - How Ontario can save money by investing in legal aid for at-risk people
Ecuador Doubles Prison Guards To Quell Violence
https://www.barrons.com/news/ecuador-doubles-prison-guards-to-quell-violence-01669665608?tesla=y
Asia
Central prison in Afghanistan’s Herat launches capacity building programmes for prisoners
Bangladesh - Inmates live subhuman life in overcrowded jails
https://www.newagebd.net/article/187750/inmates-live-subhuman-life-in-overcrowded-jails
Cambodia - Complaint boxes installed in prisons for inmates
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501192697/complaint-boxes-installed-in-prisons-for-inmates/
Japanese death row inmates sue over 'cruel' hanging
https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2022/1129/1338896-japan-execution/
Europe
Anti-torture committee highlights continuing overcrowding and staff shortages in Belgium’s prisons
News 26 – 28 November
Africa
South Africa: Prisons Watchdog Needs Sharper Teeth
https://allafrica.com/stories/202211280224.html
Americas
Argentina's prison system is holding thousands more inmates than it can house
US - For Minimum Security Federal Prisoners, The Past Two Years Have Been Rocky
Asia
India - The President’s caution on overcrowding of prisons is a wake-up call to the executive and judiciary
Nepal - Health workers being trained to carry out mental health screening of prisoners
Philippines - BuCor eyes building national prisons in all 17 PH regions
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1698319/bucor-eyes-building-national-prisons-in-all-17-ph-regions
Europe
Cyprus - Justice minister receives damning prisons report, will ‘act accordingly’
England and Wales - Inquiry launched into staffing issues in the prison system
England and Wales - Reading app to help prison leavers turn new page
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/reading-app-to-help-prison-leavers-turn-new-page
French prison population reaches a record 120% capacity
http://www.euronews.com/2022/11/28/french-prison-population-reaches-a-record-120-capacity
Dance classes give hope to Portuguese prisoners
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20221128-dance-classes-give-hope-to-portuguese-prisoners
Welsh council to take control of prison social care responsibilities
https://nation.cymru/news/welsh-council-to-take-control-of-prison-social-care-responsibilities/
Oceania
New Zealand - Highest risk offenders may be missing out on vital rehab because of psychologist shortage at Corrections
News 25 November
Americas
Canada - Working prisoners are entitled to employment and safety standards just like anybody else
Europe
England and Wales - Life After Prison: Podcast wants to break stigma of leaving jail
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/newsbeat-63701161
England and Wales - Doubts over effectiveness of post-prison services in Wales
https://pembrokeshire-herald.com/80014/doubts-over-effectiveness-of-post-prison-services-in-wales/
Scottish Prison Service spent about £1m on digital contractor fees during the pandemic
Scotland - Sturgeon urged to bin £4.12m phones for prisoner policy
https://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/23147596.sturgeon-urged-bin-4-12m-phones-prisoner-policy/
Oceania
Australia - Changes to the NT's mandatory sentencing laws pass parliament, prisoner numbers reach new record
News 24 November
Americas
Human rights organization Curaçao: situation in Block 1 of SDKK prison again dire
US - Overcrowding, Lack of Healthcare Access Help Increase COVID Mortality in Prisons
https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/101920
US - Three Georgia jail guards charged over beating caught on video
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/nov/23/georgia-inmate-beating-officers-charged
Asia
Maldives - All calls from prison are now monitored: Prison Commissioner
Europe
Highest number of people on remand in England and Wales for over 50 years
England and Wales - Autism and ADHD: the youth justice system is harming neurodivergent children
England and Wales - London probation services shockingly bad - inspectorate
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-63714964
Northern Ireland - Magilligan prisoners planting trees for the future
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-63712971
Oceania
Australia (ACT) - Bored prisoners contribute to prison tension
https://citynews.com.au/2022/bored-prisoners-contribute-to-prison-tension/
News 23 November
Africa
Nigerian Prisons record zero COVID-19 case since outbreak —CGP
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/11/nigerian-prisons-record-zero-covid-19-case-since-outbreak-cgp/
Americas
Canada - The criminal justice system is retraumatizing victims of violent crime
US - The Case For Taxing Prison Labor
https://www.forbes.com/sites/taxnotes/2022/11/22/the-case-for-taxing-prison-labor/
US - Colorado Prisons Hold People In Painful Metal Shackles For Weeks, Report Says
https://theappeal.org/colorado-prisons-metal-shackles/
US (Kansas) - The cost of talking to family from prison strains ties that help inmates thrive after release
Asia
India - Jail despite bail: Lacking money or social connections, hundreds languish behind bars
The Philippines’ Corruption-Ridden Prison System
https://www.asiasentinel.com/p/philippines-corruption-ridden-prison-system
Saudi execution spree continues as fears rise for Jordanian on death row
Europe
French magistrates go on strike over work conditions that encourage 'cheap justice'
Italy - 45 probed for 'torturing' Ivrea prison inmates
News 22 November
Africa
Prison guards in Uganda denied phones to avoid distraction during World Cup
Americas
‘They Lack Everything’: Crisis in Argentina’s Overcrowded Prisons
Cayman Islands - Poor prison security deprives inmates of rights
https://caymannewsservice.com/2022/11/poor-prison-security-deprives-inmates-of-rights/
US - Health Care During Incarceration: A Policy Position Paper From the American College of Physicians
https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M22-2370
US - Prison Mail Policy Changes Keep Incarcerated People From Receiving Mail, Packages
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/prison-mail-policy-changes-new-york
US - Alabama Suspends Executions After Lethal Injection Problems
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/21/us/alabama-executions-lethal-injection.html
Europe
Ireland - Lack of disability placement leaves vulnerable woman on remand in prison
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41011589.html
Portugal - Prison guards on strike
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2022-11-21/prison-guards-on-strike/72260
Oceania
Australia - Report praises governance of prison confinement regimes
New Zealand - Prison numbers declining - yet violent crime, gang numbers increasing
News 19-21 November
Africa
Nigeria - Victims of wrongful imprisonment recount harrowing tales, lawyers seek reforms
https://punchng.com/victims-of-wrongful-imprisonment-recount-harrowing-tales-lawyers-seek-reforms/
Zimbabwe - Mnangagwa's govt to build new prisons
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-225557.html
Americas
Ten killed as gang bosses’ transfer sparks prison riot in Ecuador
Trinidad & Tobago - Needy prisoners left without soap, sanitary supplies
https://newsday.co.tt/2022/11/20/needy-prisoners-left-without-soap-sanitary-supplies/
US - New Mexico is Paying Millions to Take Control of Private Prisons as Inmate Populations Decline
US - More 'freedom libraries' arrive in Louisiana state prisons: 'If we build it, they will come'
US (Tennessee) - Mandatory life in prison declared unconstitutional for juvenile offenders by TN Supreme Court
Asia
India - ‘Over 13,000 inmates in jail built for 5,200’
Packed cells, poor facilities, no rights—new book shows huge gaps for women in Indian jails
Philippines - Even behind bars, prisoners take part in crimes. Here’s why.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/even-behind-bars-prisoners-take-part-crimes/
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards remanded again over inmate’s murder
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/11/19/prison-guards-remanded-again-over-inmates-murder/
England and Wales - Prison guards 'leaving profession in droves' fuelled by inmate overcrowding
England and Wales - Rishi Sunak vows to increase prison capacity in crime crackdown bid
England and Wales - Inspectors demand urgent action on unsafe Exeter Prison
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-63677703
Greek courts abuse pre-trial detention
https://www.europeandatajournalism.eu/eng/News/Data-news/Greek-courts-abuse-pre-trial-detention
Northern Ireland - 'Putting children aged 10 before the courts is wrong': Calls to raise age of criminal responsibility to 16 in NI
News 18 November
Africa
UN 'Alarmed' Over Detainee Hunger Strike At Libya Jail
Americas
Survey finds Barbadians prefer rehab for criminals over just punishment
Canada - Inmate hunger strike highlights problems facing Indigenous people in prison
https://globalnews.ca/news/9287314/inmate-hunger-strike-problems-indigenous-prison/
US - The Hidden Toll Of Working On Prison Executions
https://www.npr.org/2022/11/17/1137380268/the-hidden-toll-of-working-on-prison-executions
US - When a Parent Is Jailed, Children's Health Care Suffers
US - Hundreds of Women Set to Sue New York Over Allegations of Prison Sex Abuse
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/16/nyregion/new-york-prison-sex-abuse.html
Asia
India - No ‘e-mualqat’ for inmates with families abroad due to security reasons, Tihar jail tells Delhi HC
Malaysia - Strategic system changes vital to reduce recidivism, says expert
Red Cross says ready to help decongest Philippine jails
https://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/11/18/22/red-cross-says-ready-to-help-decongest-ph-jails
Europe
England and Wales - Entrepreneur prisoners bid to turn back on crime
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/entrepreneur-prisoners-bid-to-turn-back-on-crime
England and Wales - Stocken Prison in Rutland needs more resources to prepare prisoners for release
https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/prison-lacks-resources-9284355/
Ireland - Inmates at Limerick Women's Prison sleeping on mattresses or floors due to overcrowding
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41008808.html
Sweden - Ikea pushes back against Belarus prison labour allegations
https://www.thelocal.se/20221118/ikea-pushes-back-against-belarus-prison-labour-allegations/
Oceania
Australia - Diverting children away from the criminal justice system gives them a chance to ‘grow out’ of crime
New Zealand - Prisoners win court action over wages and cost of telephone calls behind bars
News 17 November
Africa
Use of death penalty declines in Africa
https://www.dw.com/en/use-of-death-penalty-declines-in-africa/a-63777585
Americas
Canada - Judges should be free to impose conditional sentences when reasonable
At least five inmates escape from prison in Guayaquil, Ecuador
Peru, Chile Prisons May Struggle to Contain Tren de Aragua
https://insightcrime.org/peru-chile-prisons-may-struggle-to-contain-tren-de-aragua/
Asia
Bangladesh - Govt must ensure prisoner’s right to proper health care
https://www.newagebd.net/article/186603/govt-must-ensure-prisoners-right-to-proper-health-care
Europe
People from England’s most deprived areas ten times more likely to be in prison, analysis finds
https://www.miragenews.com/people-from-englands-most-deprived-areas-ten-897639/
England and Wales - Government spends more than £250k fighting Gartree ‘super prison’ planning refusal
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/government-spends-more-250k-fighting-7827581
England and Wales - Failings identified at HMP Hull after troubled inmate dies in his cell
'Scandal' as Scottish jails quarter-filled with remand prisoners waiting trial or sentencing
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/scandal-scottish-jails-quarter-filled-28507337
Oceania
Australia - Five years since the NT royal commission into youth detention and child protection, there is hope, disappointment and fear
News 16 November
Africa
Nigeria has too many prison inmates awaiting trial—technology could achieve swifter justice
https://phys.org/news/2022-11-nigeria-prison-inmates-awaiting-trialtechnology.html
Le Sénégal lance le bracelet électronique pour désengorger ses prisons
Americas
Rare look at women, children at Peru prison
US - Incarcerated People Need Access to Phone Apps
https://www.vera.org/news/incarcerated-people-need-access-to-phone-apps
US - Polls: Death Penalty Support Remains Near 50-Year Low Despite Record-High Perception that Crime Has Increased
Asia
Bangladesh - No doctor in most jails
https://www.newagebd.net/article/186534/no-doctor-in-most-jails
Kuwait executes seven people convicted of murder and other crimes
Philippines - PCIJ audit finds PH prison system gaps: Congestion, kids in jail
Syrian amnesties freed less than 6% of detainees, report reveals
Europe
Cyprus - Prison overcrowding has grown worse in recent years
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/11/15/prison-overcrowding-has-grown-worse-in-recent-years/
England and Wales - HMP Liverpool: Challenging prison 'making positive progress'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-63624834
Oceania
Australia ready for next UN prison inspection
https://www.riverineherald.com.au/national/aust-ready-for-next-un-prison-inspection/
Australia - Queensland's youth justice review reveals children held in watch houses for longer, possibly pleading guilty to crimes they didn't commit
News 15 November
Africa
Prison conditions in South Africa need an URGENT upgrade
Americas
US (California) - Identifying childhood trauma a key to rehabilitating, reintegrating prison inmates into society
US (Hawaii) - Prison rape victims seek $7.5M in damages, but state argues it’s not liable
US (Washington) - ‘I don’t have the funds’: a diabetic prisoner pleaded for insulin supplies before his death
US - ‘If I could buy freedom, I would’: LA residents who can’t afford bail sue to change system
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/nov/14/los-angeles-bail-lawsuit-jail-prison-reform
Europe
England and Wales - 'Model prisoner' found dead at Leyland prison after being refused parole
https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/model-prisoner-found-dead-leyland-25510089
Oceania
Australia - Queensland has more children in detention than any other state, report says
New Zealand - All prisons short of Corrections officers as jailhouse population climbs
News 12 – 14 November
Africa
Kenya - Organisation opens safehouse for women released from prison
Americas
Opinion: It’s time to end forced prison labor everywhere in the United States
Asia
India - Prison inmates stage protest over 'poor food quality' in Patna, report sought
Philippines - NBP, prison system need serious reforms
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, October 2022
Ireland - Almost two-thirds of women in Mountjoy prison’s Dochas centre on methadone
Ireland - Vulnerable woman's death in prison must be a catalyst for change, campaigners say
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41004944.html
North Macedonia to pardon violators of pandemic measures
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/north-macedonia-pardon-violators-pandemic-measures-93174271
Scotland - Health bosses could be called in over 'shocking' state of HMP Greenock
https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/23114361.health-bosses-called-shocking-state-hmp-greenock/
Oceania
Australia could free a third of its prisoners with little risk to community, new research finds
Australia - Former inmates struggling to reintegrate into society due to minimal experience with digital technology
Australia - Calls for royal commission into WA youth justice, as judge again condemns Banksia Hill
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-11-14/royal-commission-calls-wa-banksia-hill-youth-prison/101650190
News 11 November
Africa
At least 17 prisoners on the run after Comoros islands prison break
Americas
US - End of slavery exception in state constitutions could reform prison labor
Asia
Philippines - P4 billion needed to build ‘supermax’ prison – Remulla
Thailand - Phuket inmates get cooking in ‘street food’ contest
https://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-inmates-get-cooking-in-street-food-contest-86189.php
Europe
England and Wales - Durham Prison criticised over vulnerable inmate's hanging death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tees-63587888
Scotland - Lengthy Covid isolation for prisoners ‘risked breaching human rights’
Turks risk losing Europe's human rights protections after court spurned
Oceania
Australia - How a cell-free facility is leading the way for NSW prisons
https://www.2gb.com/ray-hadley-broadcasts-from-innovative-nsw-prison/
Australia - NT juvenile justice system has ‘undoubtedly gone backwards’
New Zealand - Courts and justice staff across NZ take industrial action over cost of living
News 10 November
Americas
Latin American Countries Release Thousands of Criminals from Prison
US - Voters approve limits on forced prison labor in four states
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2022/nov/9/voters-approve-limits-on-forced-prison-labor-in-fo/
US - ICE Loves to Buy Furniture Made With Prison Labor, Documents Show
https://gizmodo.com/ice-prison-labor-unicor-furniture-admission-kit-hygiene-1849629394
US - Alabama Prison Crisis Continues With 17th Recorded Homicide
Asia
Philippines - DOJ to check possible liability of jail officials over unclaimed inmate cadavers
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2022/11/10/DOJ-unclaimed-cadavers-Bilibid-inmates.html
Europe
Minister: Amnesty will not affect crime situation in Belarus
Scotland - SNP ministers warned budget cuts to prisons will put 'community safety' at risk
https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/politics/snp-ministers-warned-budget-cuts-28446629
Oceania
Australia - New philanthropy-backed podcast created by women in prison
New Zealand - Slow progress for national arts in prisons strategy
News 9 November
Africa
Nigeria - Prison Decongestion: Over 12,000 inmates freed within last six years — FG
Americas
Guyana - Counseling replaces custodial sentences for small amounts of marijuana
Jamaica - Five prison inmates infected with tuberculosis
https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20221108/five-prison-inmates-infected-tuberculosis
US - Texas’ soaring psychiatric bed waitlist leaves county jails in a bind
US - Measure 112 passes, removing slavery language from Oregon Constitution
Asia
Young protesters undergo military training, patriotic education in Hong Kong prisons
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/protesters-11082022100105.html
India - Awareness class held for women prisoners on rights and duties
Japan - UN body slams death row conditions, demands progress towards the abolition of capital punishment
https://www.fidh.org/en/region/asia/japan/paris-tokyo-fidh-and-center-for-prisoners
Europe
England and Wales - Durham Prison death inquest considers if restraint caused death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tees-63562152
Italy - Three prison officers arrested for torturing psychiatric inmate
Ukraine Considers Alternatives to Jail for Minor Crimes
https://iwpr.net/global-voices/ukraine-considers-alternatives-jail-minor-crimes
News 8 November
Africa
Nigeria - Group calls for strict implementation of criminal Justice law
https://guardian.ng/features/law/group-calls-for-strict-implementation-of-criminal-justice-law/
Americas
At least five dead and three wounded in new clashes in an Ecuadorian prison
Transfers of Gang Leaders Focus Points for Ecuador’s Prison Violence
https://insightcrime.org/news/transfers-of-gang-leaders-focus-points-for-ecuadors-prison-violence/
US - Kentucky governor promotes ‘prison-to-work’ program
https://apnews.com/article/prisons-kentucky-government-and-politics-a5166c6c0ed9792847cd7497364d0d9e
Asia
India: Conjugal rights debate puts focus on jail reform
https://www.dw.com/en/india-conjugal-rights-debate-puts-focus-on-jail-reform/a-63671294
Europe
Clearer, kinder and fit for today: Belgium to overhaul Penal Code
https://www.brusselstimes.com/318299/more-humane-clearer-and-modern-belgium-to-overhaul-penal-code
Netherlands - More prison detainees in 2021
https://www.cbs.nl/en-gb/news/2022/44/more-prison-detainees-in-2021
Scotland - Bill for new Highland prison rises again to almost £140 million with more delays anticipated
Oceania
Australia - Judge accuses WA government of 'flouting the law' over juveniles detained in adult prison
Australia - New South Wales prisoner assault statistics concern advocates
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-11-08/nsw-prisoner-assault-statistics-concern-advocates/101624424
News 5-7 November
Africa
Kenya - Virtual inmate visitation program unveiled at Nakuru G.K Prisons
Americas
Canada - Federal prison service hiring an executive to address soaring rates of Indigenous imprisonment
Canada - More people may join ongoing hunger strike at Sask. women's jail, advocate says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/hunger-strike-prince-albert-jail-1.6641855
US - Why So Many Jails Are in a ‘State of Complete Meltdown’
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2022/11/04/why-so-many-jails-are-in-a-state-of-complete-meltdown
Asia
Pakistan - Juvenile Justice Committee set up for first time in Islamabad
https://www.dawn.com/news/1719204/juvenile-justice-committee-set-up-for-first-time-in-islamabad
Philippines - Senate mulls prison system overhaul
https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/07/senate-mulls-prison-system-overhaul/
Philippines - Senate to push for funds to start construction of separate facility for heinous criminals
Europe
England and Wales - Iceland hiring ex-prisoners in stores in recruitment drive 'good for society'
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/iceland-hiring-ex-prisoners-stores-28417099
Ireland - Those on probation orders earn 30% less – CSO
Portugal - Prison guards on strike
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2022-11-05/prison-guards-on-strike/71768
Oceania
Australia - NSW reversed decision to allow UN inspection of prisons at last minute, committee told
Australia - South-east Qld prison still in lockdown after inmates climb onto roof
Australia - Prisoner in intensive care after huge fire, riot tears through Adelaide jail
Australia - Queensland's youth justice system 'in crisis' amid human rights breaches, children's commissioner warns
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-11-05/qld-commissioner-youth-justice-children-watch-house/101610300
News 4 November
More Women Are Being Imprisoned. It’s Not Making the World Safer.
https://www.wola.org/analysis/more-women-imprisoned-not-making-world-safer/
Africa
Ghana - Remove death penalty from Constitution - Lawyer urges
Effective Mechanisms For Management Of Pre-Trial Detention In Sub-Saharan Africa
Americas
Canada - Prison watchdog raises concerns again about conditions at Edmonton Institution
US - Virginia Women’s Prisons Force People to Remove Pads, Tampons During Strip Searches
https://theappeal.org/virginia-prisons-tampons-strip-searches/
Asia
India - NCRB to upgrade prison security
India - Disease burden in jails
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/editorials/disease-burden-in-jails-447331
Philippines - BuCor OIC to implement 1-strike policy for jail officials
Europe
England and Wales - MP calls for change in prison release days to stop gangs picking up ex-inmates
England and Wales - Construction starts on UK’s first all-electric prison
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/construction-starts-on-uk-s-first-all-electric-prison
Oceania
Australia’s prisons to cost $7bn a year by 2030 as number of women incarcerated grows faster than men – study
Australia (NSW) - Segregations exceeding 24 hours at Juvenile Justice centres on the rise.
News 3 November
Americas
Canada - Legal group raises concerns about prisoner review system
Two dead in gang violence at Ecuador prison after inmate transfers
Promise of voting rights remains distant for those in US jails
US - Justice Department reports on sexual assaults by federal corrections employees
https://www.npr.org/2022/11/03/1133543089/prison-assault-justice-report
Europe
England and Wales - Model for reintegrating prisoners into the community ‘must be overhauled at the earliest opportunity’
https://www.thejusticegap.com/offender-management-in-custody-model-omic-is-simply-not-working/
England and Wales - 'Worryingly high' levels of violence continue at Werrington youth prison
Italy - The worst year for prison suicides – Gabriele D’Angelo
https://www.breakinglatest.news/news/the-worst-year-for-prison-suicides-gabriele-dangelo/
Scottish prisons could be plunged into permanent Covid- style lockdowns if they do not get extra funding
News 2 November
Americas
Antigua - Prison staff called out for failing to support colleagues in protest action
Canada’s prison system has changed little for Indigenous Peoples: Report
Canada - Courts, government bills are unravelling Harper-era crime laws
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/stephen-harper-mandatory-minimum-sentences-criminal-code-1.6637154
Canada - Does N.B. need a new $32-million jail? Province won't release records explaining decision
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/fredericton-jail-data-records-1.6636550
US - Sentenced to life for stealing $14: ‘I needed help, but was given jail’
US - Hawaii Corrections By The Numbers: Incarceration Declined In 2020, And So Did Crime Rates
Asia
India - Skill development training to prisoners in AP
Voter turnout in Israeli prisons at 80% as polls close
https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-721228
Editorial: As Japan changes form of prison sentences, efforts needed to curb recidivism
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20221102/p2a/00m/0op/012000c
Philippines - ‘High number of deaths in BuCor’s detention facilities alarming’ – CHR
https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/02/high-number-of-deaths-in-bucorsdetention-facilities-alarming-chr/
Europe
England and Wales - Almost 75,000 defendants awaiting crown court trial, says head of CPS
https://www.theguardian.com/law/2022/nov/01/almost-75000-crown-court-cases-backlog-cps-max-hill
Scotland - Staff shortages at prison leading to ‘detrimental impact’ on inmates
News 1 November
Africa
Kenya - Prisons Urged To Appropriately Rehabilitate Inmates
https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/news/2022/10/prisons-urged-to-appropriately-rehabilitate-inmates/
South Africa - Jailing is not always the answer
Americas
Guyana - Prisoners happy with meals; improved living conditions promised – Prison Service
Inmates Are Pushing Back Against Working In U.S. Prisons
https://www.newsy.com/stories/inmates-are-pushing-back-against-working-in-u-s-prisons/
US - Rikers Island detainee is 18th person to die in NYC’s prison system in 2022
https://nypost.com/2022/10/31/18th-detainee-dies-in-nyc-jail/
Asia
Indonesia - Restorative justice makes criminal law more humane: Deputy Minister
Philippines - Gov’t told to stop drug war to help decongest prisons
Philippines - CHR: ‘Death penalty inhuman, cruel, degrading, disadvantageous to poor’
https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/01/chr-death-penalty-inhuman-crueldegrading-disadvantageous-to-poor/
Europe
England and Wales - Lancaster Farms prisoners injured in protest over no clean water for nine hours
Scotland - Academia, industry and social enterprise join forces to support prison leavers
News 29 – 31 October
Africa
Namibia and Botswana agree to exchange prisoners
https://www.namibian.com.na/117377/read/Namibia-and-Botswana-agree-to-exchange-prisoners
Nigeria - Prison decongestion will curb jail breaks – Rights lawyer
https://punchng.com/prison-decongestion-will-curb-jail-breaks-rights-lawyer/
Rwanda - Over 25,000 in jail for drug abuse
https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/2183/news/rwanda/over-25000-in-jail-for-drug-abuse
Americas
US - Heavy equipment meets virtual training at Oregon’s only women’s prison
US (Pennsylvania) - Activists Put Solitary Confinement on Ballot, But Local Elections Board Nixed It
US - Iowa remains the only state without a compassionate release program
Asia
India - SC decides to examine poll law which deprives under trials, civil prison detainees their right to vote
Pakistan - Around 25 pc prisoners in Lahore, Rawalpindi jails prone to drug addiction: Report
Philippines - BuCor resumes visitation privileges for PDLs in maximum-security jails
https://mb.com.ph/2022/10/30/bucor-resumes-visitation-privilegesfor-pdls-in-maximum-security-jails/
Thailand - New law on chemical castration of sexual offenders gazetted
Europe
England and Wales - Remand prisoners ‘missing out on jobs and education’
https://insidetime.org/remand-prisoners-missing-out-on-jobs-and-education/
England and Wales - In Britain, a jail sentence is often a death sentence. What’s going on in our prisons?
England and Wales - Inside one of London's oldest prisons that's so overcrowded that inmates share one man cells
https://www.mylondon.news/news/north-london-news/inside-one-londons-oldest-prison-25360912
England and Wales - HMP The Verne criticised in Ofsted inspection
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23085805.hmp-verne-criticised-ofsted-inspection/
Northern Ireland - Prisons in grip of opioid crisis as one in five inmates getting treatment or awaiting help
Vegan activist takes Switzerland to human rights court over prison diet
Inflation affects Türkiye's unprecedentedly high prison population
Oceania
Growing prison populations in Australia are costing $4.2bn a year despite falling crime rates, Labor says
New Zealand - Whanganui prison to resume face-to-face visits after none for nine months
New Zealand - Corrections losing staff faster than it can hire them
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300726819/corrections-losing-staff-faster-than-it-can-hire-them
News 28 October
Americas
US - Why is solitary confinement increasing in federal prisons? New chief wants to know
https://news.yahoo.com/why-solitary-confinement-increasing-u-213232867.html
US - Colorado prisons’ restraint techniques amount to “torture” and need reform, lawmaker says
https://www.denverpost.com/2022/10/27/colorado-prisons-restraint-legislation/
US - Vermont still housing juveniles in adult prisons
https://www.vnews.com/juvenile-detention-in-adult-prisons-in-vermont-48586596
Asia
India - Psychological test of death row convicts is essential, says Supreme Court
Europe
England and Wales - Number of prisoners yet to be found guilty of a crime hits 50-year high
England and Wales - Safety in Custody Statistics, England and Wales: Deaths in Prison Custody to September 2022 Assaults and Self-harm to June 2022
Government seeks urgent contract to keep prisoners in Spain warm and fed this winter
https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/warm-prisons-gas-prices-20221028100807-nt.html
Switzerland - Report takes issue with treatment of long-term incarcerated
Oceania
New Zealand - Corrections spend $4m on TV ad amid desperate staffing shortages
https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/10/28/corrections-spend-4m-on-tv-ad-amid-desperate-staffing-shortages/
News 27 October
Africa
Experts seek medical intervention for elderly prison inmates in Nigeria
https://guardian.ng/news/experts-seek-medical-intervention-for-elderly-prison-inmates-in-nigeria/
Americas
US - How Mass Incarceration Shapes Our Elections
https://www.vera.org/news/how-mass-incarceration-shapes-our-elections
US - Prison reform is on the midterm ballot
https://news.yahoo.com/prison-reform-midterm-ballot-095809483.html
US - Physical Mail Was My Lifeline to the Outside World — and Now It’s Gone
https://truthout.org/articles/physical-mail-was-my-lifeline-to-the-outside-world-and-now-its-gone/
US (Hawaii) - Judge: Prison Officials Must Release Names Of Inmates Who Die In Custody
Asia
India - When courts enter prisons
https://theleaflet.in/when-courts-enter-prisons/
Thailand - Health checkups for inmates as mobile unit visits Phuket prison
News 26 October
Americas
A made-in-Canada solution to help Indigenous people in prisons
Gang control of Ecuador's prisons leave inmates' families terrified
In the U.S., some 4.6 million people are disenfranchised due to a felony conviction
https://www.ktoo.org/2022/10/25/felon-voting-state-laws-disenfranchisement-rates/
US - Missouri Department of Corrections sees 25% increase in prisoner deaths this year
Asia
Prisons Dept: Malaysia looking to slash prison occupancy by two-thirds over next eight years
Pakistan: Court orders action against IG Prisons over inhuman treatment of inmates
Europe
Belgium - Ongoing 48-hour strike among staff at Saint-Gilles Prison
https://www.brusselstimes.com/312195/ongoing-48-hour-strike-among-staff-at-saint-gilles-prison
Scotland - Criminal justice groups warn of drastic cuts under spending plans
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-63391666
Oceania
Australia - Clarence Correctional Centre prisoners face lockdown as officers strike for second time in four weeks
News 25 October
Americas
One inmate dies in yet another prison riot in Ecuador
https://en.mercopress.com/2022/10/25/one-inmate-dies-in-yet-another-prison-riot-in-ecuador
Prison deaths mount in El Salvador's gang crackdown
New US prisons chief pledges truth, reform for ailing system
US (New York) - Rikers Island Sees 17th Prisoner Death This Year
https://reason.com/2022/10/24/rikers-island-sees-17th-prisoner-death-this-year/
Asia
Death row prisoners launch legal challenge to Japan’s no-notice executions
Malaysia and the Politics Behind the Death Penalty: A Tumultuous Relationship.
Philippines - 3 to 5 inmates die in BuCor prisons each day, says spox
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/10/24/22/bucor-3-to-5-inmates-die-in-prisons-each-day
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Over-ambitious’ HMPPS electronic tagging plan ‘threw away’ £100m
England and Wales - Racism ‘overlooked and ignored’ among UK prison deaths, says new report
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/racism-overlooked-ignored-among-uk-prison-deaths/
England and Wales - HMP The Verne inmates need more purposeful activity, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-63378713
Oceania
U.N. torture prevention team suspends visit to Australia over prison dispute
Australia - WA prisoners in 'inhumane' conditions as mental health hospital Franklin Centre's waitlist grows
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-25/frankland-centre-full-mentally-unwell-prisoners-/101563292
News 22 – 24 October
Americas
USAID Launches Programme to Improve Youth Justice Systems in Eastern Caribbean
Canada - '20 minutes a day': advocates say B.C. prison COVID-19 lockdown goes too far
https://vancouver.citynews.ca/2022/10/22/bc-prison-covid-lockdown/
US - Compassionate Release Program Underused as Prison Populations Age: Study
Asia
India - 448 Prisoners Released In A Day: How Chhattisgarh Is Decongesting Its Jails
Myanmar junta bans prison visits after parcel bomb attack
https://www.laprensalatina.com/myanmar-junta-bans-prison-visits-after-parcel-bomb-attack/
Pakistan - Court hearings go virtual on trial basis
https://www.dawn.com/news/1716195
Sri Lanka - New prison rules raise alarms
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2022/10/23/new-prison-rules-raise-alarms/
Europe
England and Wales - Prison’s ‘chronic’ problems are exposed in latest report
https://www.islingtontribune.co.uk/article/prisons-chronic-problems-are-exposed-in-latest-report
Ireland - McEntee confirms that prisoners on release are not being tagged due to cost
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40989929.html
Sweden's new right-leaning government to look at outsourcing prisoners to other countries
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/swedens-leaning-government-look-outsourcing-144516281.html
Turkey - Silivri Prison inmates complain of ill-treatment, poor prison conditions, says parliamentary committee report
Oceania
Failure to allow full UN prison inspections risks Australia’s international standing, experts say
Australia - Judge issues WA government contempt of court warning over children detained in adult prison
News 21 October
Americas
Canada - Mandatory minimum penalties harm the justice system
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-mandatory-minimum-penalties-harm-the-justice-system/
Abortion bans create ‘insurmountable barriers’ for incarcerated women in US
US - Louisiana begins moving child inmates to notorious Angola prison’s former death row unit
Asia
Punjab: Hundreds enjoy new conjugal visit rooms in India jails
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-63327632
Europe
England and Wales - Government ‘throws away’ £100m in failing tagging scheme
https://www.thejusticegap.com/government-throws-away-100m-in-failing-tagging-scheme/
England and Wales - Devon prison makes 'encouraging progress', say inspectors
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-63341603
Oceania
Australia - Malcolm Turnbull warns NSW and Queensland of ‘company they’re keeping’ by blocking UN prison inspectors
News 20 October
Americas
Canada - Almost 100 inmates in B.C. prison diagnosed with COVID-19
Canada - Inmates on hunger strike at women's jail in Sask. as concerns raised about conditions
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/pine-grove-correctional-concerns-1.6622343
New data tool details thousands of corporations profiting from U.S. prison industry: report
https://english.news.cn/20221020/ac5aa74036ea4fd887e8cc62ca167161/c.html
US - Restoring voting rights to those trapped by the carceral system goes beyond successful legislation
https://prismreports.org/2022/10/19/restoring-voting-rights/
US (Pennsylvania) - Jail officials across Pa. sound alarm as mental health crisis puts people at risk, survey finds
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2022/10/pennsylvania-county-jail-mental-health-survey/
Asia
Saudi Arabia: Rights group warns kingdom still issuing death sentences for children
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/saudi-arabia-minors-death-sentences-rights-group
Europe
England and Wales - Devolution ‘necessary step’ towards better Welsh criminal justice system, academics argue
https://www.miragenews.com/devolution-necessary-step-towards-better-welsh-878058/
Oceania
Australia - NSW using prisoners as political pawns, critics say, after state refuses to let UN inspectors into detention facility
News 19 October
Asia
India - Special living quarters for VIP Arthur Road Jail inmates soon
Explosions at Myanmar main prison kill eight -media
Europe
Bulgaria: CoE prison report finds violence, health issues and staff shortages
England and Wales - HMP Pentonville living conditions and overcrowding worsen
https://www.thejusticegap.com/hmp-pentonville-living-conditions-and-overcrowding-worsen/
England and Wales - New report uncovers ‘institutional racism’ in the justice system
Oceania
Australia - NSW denies prison access for UN delegation
https://www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au/story/7948856/nsw-denies-prison-access-for-un-delegation/
Let the UN’s light of scrutiny shine on Australia’s prisons and detention regimes
News 18 October
Africa
Liberia: Prison Fellowship Liberia Sponsors 1,500 Children in School
https://allafrica.com/stories/202210170469.html
Americas
Antigua - Prison officers take to the streets to demand better working conditions
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-officers-take-to-the-streets-to-demand-better-working-conditions/
British Virgin Islands - HM Prison to now get CCTV surveillance
https://bvinews.com/hm-prison-to-now-get-cctv-surveillance/
US - Inmate strike inside Alabama prisons comes to end
https://www.wsfa.com/2022/10/17/inmate-strike-inside-alabama-prisons-comes-end/
Asia
Philippines - DOJ aims to set up regional prison facilities ‘to humanize prison system’
https://mb.com.ph/2022/10/18/doj-aims-to-set-up-regional-prisonfacilities-to-humanize-prison-system/
Europe
England and Wales - Winchester prison faces damning report revealing persistent violence and 'vermin-infested' buildings
En suites, yoga and pastel shades: radical women’s prison to open in Scotland
Scotland - Court backlog has reduced by 10000 since the start of the year
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 isolation policy sees girls in Alice Springs juvenile detention centre moved into boys' area
News 12-17 October
Africa
South Africa - Overcrowding and suicides a concern in SA prisons
Americas
Concerns grow as cholera spreads through Haiti's prisons
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/haiti-ap-health-portauprince-puerto-rico-b2200710.html
US - Costs of incarceration rise as inflation squeezes inmates, families
Asia
Cambodia - Prisoners are being marked for parole
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501169388/prisoners-are-being-marked-for-parole/
Iran prison fire death toll rises to 8 inmates killed
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/iran-prison-fire-death-toll-rises-to-8-inmates-killed-177754
Malaysia - Two-thirds of prisoners to undergo community rehab by 2030
Pakistan - Inmates in overcrowded jails suffer ‘torture’
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2381682/inmates-in-overcrowded-jails-suffer-torture
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, September 2022
England and Wales - Black deaths in UK prisons are among most violent and neglectful, damning report finds
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/black-prison-deaths-violent-b2201312.html
England and Wales - Foreign detainees being held in jail despite completing their sentences, UK prison watchdog says
England and Wales - Backlog of criminal cases in Crown Courts reaches record high after strike
Ireland - How prisoners help each other with mental health issues
https://www.newstalk.com/news/how-prisoners-help-each-other-with-mental-health-issues-1391940
Italy - Prisoner kills self in Florence, 68th jail suicide this year
Northern Ireland - Long opens new Staff Wellbeing Hub at Maghaberry Prison
https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/news/long-opens-new-staff-wellbeing-hub-maghaberry-prison
News 11 October
Africa
SPECIAL REPORT: Criminalisation of petty offences in Nigeria violates the poor
80 Zimbabweans on death row; NGO urges Govt to abolish death penalty
Americas
US - Prisoners in Alabama keep dying as inmates go on statewide labour strike
US (Colorado) - Inside the nation's first and only statewide prison radio station where inmates use conversation to "become better people"
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/inside-wire-prison-radio-station/
Asia
Prison Riot In Northern Iran In Kills Several Inmates
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202210107513
Malaysia - Prisons Dept targets more inmates to undergo community rehab to prevent overcrowding
Philippines - Rights group calls for mass pardon for low-level offenders
Europe
England and Wales - Backlog of nearly 60,000 court cases won’t be resolved quickly despite end of strike action, barristers warn
Oceania
Australia - ‘Barbaric’ practices still used in Victorian prisons, human rights advocates say
News 8 – 10 October
Africa
Aregbesola wants 30% of Nigeria’s prison inmates released
Americas
British Virgin Islands - HMP neglected for years! Security very poor, prison review finds
https://bvinews.com/hmp-neglected-for-years-security-very-poor-prison-review-finds/
Cayman Islands - Problems persist for vulnerable prisoners
https://caymannewsservice.com/2022/10/problems-persist-for-vulnerable-prisoners/
US - ‘It just doesn’t let up’: Alabama state prisons rife with violence, inmates say
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/oct/07/alabama-state-prisons-violence-strike-investigation
Asia
Bangladesh - Only four physicians for around 83,000 inmates
https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/2sw4r2cj3f
India - Mumbai: Only one psychiatrist for over 42,000 prisoners in state
Indonesia mulls introduction of a ‘probationary’ death penalty
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/10/10/indonesia-considers-plans-for-a-probationary-death-penalty
Pakistan - Early resolution of overcrowding in jails urged
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/998118-early-resolution-of-overcrowding-in-jails-urged
Europe
England and Wales - Criminal barristers vote to end strike over pay
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-63198892
England and Wales - RAF prison plans a 'gross misallocation of taxpayers’ money'
https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/23033073.raf-prison-plans-gross-misallocation-taxpayers-money/
England and Wales - Prisoners at HMP Spring Hill near Aylesbury living in 'unfit for purpose' accommodation
https://www.buckinghamshirelive.com/news/buckinghamshire-news/prisoners-hmp-spring-hill-near-7666840
Türkiye plans removing ‘no jail’ rule for offenders
https://www.dailysabah.com/turkey/turkiye-plans-removing-no-jail-rule-for-offenders/news
Oceania
Australia - ‘Dying is normal in this jail’: teenager held in Port Phillip prison for four months
Australia - NSW Serco staff strike at largest prison
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7935349/nsw-serco-staff-strike-at-largest-prison/
New Zealand - Prison visitors ban 'unconscionable' - advocacy group
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/476421/prison-visitors-ban-unconscionable-advocacy-group
News 7 October
Africa
South Africa - Prison group fights to have cellphones in jails but authorities give reasons why they are considered contraband
Americas
Ecuador: UN torture prevention body remains seriously concerned by prison crisis after second visit
US - Biden pardons thousands with federal convictions of simple marijuana possession
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/oct/06/biden-marijuana-pardon-possession-decriminalization
US - Survey: Crime Victims Want More Help, Less Punitive Justice
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/10/06/survey-crime-victims-want-more-help-less-punitive-justice/
US - The Stunning Neglect and Racist Politics Behind Alabama’s Prison Strike
US - Two inmates killed at California state prisons within 24 hours, officials say
Asia
Philippines eyes release of 5,000 inmates by 2023
Singapore hangs 11th prisoner of year: NGO
https://www.laprensalatina.com/singapore-hangs-11th-prisoner-of-year-ngo/
Europe
England and Wales - Plan to further expand new prison under construction
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c84gwk9nln3o
England and Wales - Young defendants pressured to plead guilty in 20 minutes
https://www.thejusticegap.com/young-defendants-pressured-to-plead-guilty-in-20-minutes/
Oceania
Australia - ‘It’s getting results’: New rapid-build prison having impact on inmates’ behaviour
https://www.2gb.com/its-getting-results-new-rapid-build-prison-having-impact-on-inmates-behaviour/
New Zealand - Lawyers trying to prepare for trials locked out of Rimutaka prison due to staff shortages
News 6 October
Americas
Latest Ecuador prison riot leaves at least 11 injured
Asia
India - Are women prison inmates entitled to special provisions?
https://sabrangindia.in/article/are-women-prison-inmates-entitled-special-provisions
Malaysia - 7 bills tabled for abolition of mandatory death penalty
https://www.malaysianow.com/news/2022/10/06/7-bills-tabled-for-abolition-of-mandatory-death-penalty
Europe
CoE Report: Pandemic Worsened Backlog in Balkan Courts
https://balkaninsight.com/2022/10/05/coe-report-pandemic-worsened-backlog-in-balkan-courts/
Cyprus - Prison guards call off strike but reject government offer
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/10/05/prison-guards-call-off-strike-after-deal-reached/
England and Wales - Prison educators vote to strike across England over low pay
https://www.ucu.org.uk/article/12550/Prison-educators-vote-to-strike-across-England-over-low-pay
England and Wales - Record levels of violent and sex crime cases in courts backlog for over a year
News 5 October
Africa
4 deaths, 30 cases of medical negligence in Egypt prisons, rights group says
Americas
Argentina - Human development workshops in Buenos Aires prisons
https://www.pressenza.com/2022/10/human-development-workshops-in-buenos-aires-prisons/
New clashes break out in Ecuador prison after deadly riot
El Salvador: Rising Prison Inmate Numbers Threaten Humanitarian Crisis- NGO
Europe
England and Wales - Swaleside prison in Sheppey 'buckling' from staffing crisis, warn inspectors
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/sheerness/news/ministry-of-justice-blasted-for-staffing-crisis-274600/
Oceania
Government pledges full review of Western Australia's struggling juvenile justice system
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-05/wa-government-to-review-juvenile-justice-system/101500118
New Zealand - Staffing Shortages Compromising Prison Safety
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA2210/S00023/staffing-shortages-compromising-prison-safety.htm
News 4 October
Americas
Canada - B.C. expanding post-prison support services to all 10 correctional facilities
At least 15 killed in latest Ecuadorean prison violence
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/least-15-killed-latest-ecuadorean-prison-violence-2022-10-04/
US - Why Keeping Kids Out of Jail Makes Us Safer
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/10/03/why-keeping-kids-out-of-jail-makes-us-safer/
US (Tennessee) - Prison reform advocate settles solitary confinement suit
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/ap-nashville-corecivic-b2192438.html
US (Iowa) - Panel rejects $1-million payouts to inmates given vaccine overdoses
Europe
England and Wales - Campaigners fight plans for £300m HMP Gartree 'super jail' ahead of inquiry
England and Wales - Prisoners start as apprentices at big name employers
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/prisoners-start-as-apprentices-at-big-name-employers
Letters point to an extreme abuse of prisoners rights in Turkish jails
https://medyanews.net/letters-point-to-an-extreme-abuse-of-prisoners-rights-in-turkish-jails/
Oceania
New Zealand - Human Rights Commission blasts Corrections over face-to-face visits
News 1-3 October
Americas
US - What’s Prison For? Concise diagnosis of a huge American problem
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/sep/30/whats-prison-for-review-bill-keller-marshall-project
US - They’re in federal prison, and they’re done staying quiet
https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/10/01/federal-prisoners-speak-out-report/
US - Biden pledged to end solitary confinement. Federal prisons are increasing its use.
US - What an Alabama Prisoners’ Strike Tells Us About Prison Labor
US - How Hawaii brought its population of girls in prison to zero
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/hawaii-brought-population-girls-prison-zero-rcna41532
US - Calls from California prisons will be free under new law signed by Newsom
US - ‘State of despair.’ Inmate suicides approach historic high in North Carolina prisons.
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article266543526.html
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards continue pay protests for 12th day
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/09/30/prison-guards-continue-pay-protests-for-12th-day/
England and Wales - Prison education: Ministers to tackle ‘disastrously overlooked’ issue of prisoners with SEND
England and Wales - Violence at Peterborough prison down year-on-year but self-harm rising among women, annual report reveals
Ireland - ‘Health-led’ approach for drug-users in prison system
Northern Ireland - Justice Minister launches consultation on minimum age of criminal responsibility
Oceania
Australia - The time to end mass imprisonment in Victoria is now
News 30 September
Africa
Gambia: Hon. Ceesay - Gambia´s Prison Cells Do Not Meet Human Rights Standard
https://allafrica.com/stories/202209290441.html
Libya's Mufti denounces dire conditions in prisons across country
https://www.libyaobserver.ly/news/libyas-mufti-denounces-dire-conditions-prisons-across-country
Americas
At least 12 Haiti prisoners dead for lack of food, medicine, official says
US – Opinion: Thousands were released from prison during covid. The results are shocking.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/09/29/prison-release-covid-pandemic-incarceration/
Federal prisons ‘riddled with mismanagement’ probed by U.S. Senate panel
US - Alabama prisons reduce meals, nix visits amid inmate strike
US - Gov. Newsom vetoes bill to end indefinite solitary confinement in California, citing safety concerns
US - New Images Reveal Shocking Conditions in New York’s Rikers Island Jail
Europe
England and Wales - Prison inspectors concerned over 'high levels' of self harm in HMP Nottingham
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/prison-inspectors-concerned-over-high-7646075
Netherlands - Cabinet wants to up the use of ankle bracelets and community service
Northern Ireland - ‘Let’s keep option of remote courts after pandemic’, say lawyers
Scotland - New Glasgow prison for women with 'no bars or fences' due to open next month
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/new-glasgow-prison-women-no-25140608
Turkey - Inmates in Çorum’s minimum security prison not allowed to take university courses despite regulations
Oceania
Australia - NSW Serco prison officers walk off the job
https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/7924215/nsw-serco-prison-officers-walk-off-the-job/
Australia - Inside a women’s prison: ‘I’ve seen things no human should ever have to see’
News 29 September
Americas
'I have to keep fighting': Mexicans wait for years behind bars for a trial
US - Inmate strike spreads to all major Alabama prisons
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2022/09/29/qsmx-s29.html
Asia
Philippines - BuCor’s 37,000 PDLs get Covid booster shots
https://mb.com.ph/2022/09/29/bucors-37000-pdls-get-covid-booster-shots/
Europe
Leeds prison still has ongoing issues of self-harm and overcrowding despite improvements, inspection finds
Scotland prisons: Statistics reveal suicide death rate
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/22788767.scotland-prisons-statistics-reveal-suicide-death-rate/
Oceania
New Zealand - Prisoner numbers are down: let’s not go back to a ‘lock ’em up’ mindset
News 28 September
Americas
Brazil's prisons generate income, say pastoral workers
https://www.ucanews.com/news/brazils-prisons-generate-income-say-pastoral-workers/98911
Nearly 20 prisoners escape from a prison in southern Peru
US - ‘Slavery by any name is wrong’: the push to end unpaid labor in prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/sep/27/slavery-loophole-unpaid-labor-in-prisons
US - I spent years in solitary confinement. End this horrific mistreatment of people in prison.
US - California Private Prison Ban Ruled Unconstitutional in Federal Court
US (California) - Prisoners Forced to Work for Showers Are Now Being Punished for Taking Them
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/water-restrictions-drought-california-prisons/
US - Alabama prisoners refusing to work in 2nd day of protest
Asia
Lebanon: Drama therapist helps inmates with mental illnesses while pushing for reform
UAE: Police launch social club for prison inmates with library, classrooms, computers
Europe
England and Wales - Government change legislation to allow prisoners to take up apprenticeships following Committee recommendation
England and Wales - Call to re-sentence 3,000 prisoners trapped under indefinite jail terms
Oceania
Australia - Drug traffickers to face possibility of life in prison after loophole in SA drug laws closed
News 27 September
Americas
More than a hundred inmates escape from a Haitian prison
US - Prison Staff Shortages Take Toll on Guards, Incarcerated People
US - Report: Black Americans more likely to be wrongfully convicted
https://www.axios.com/2022/09/27/black-americans-wrongly-convicted-jail-prison
Dementia in Prison Is Turning into an Epidemic: The U.S. Penal System Is Badly Unprepared
US - Alabama prison system reports work stoppage after group calls for inmate strike
US - Judge approves ‘untenable’ plan to house child inmates in Louisiana’s notorious Angola prison death row wing
US - ‘Mandela’ bill would limit solitary confinement in California prisons and jails
Asia
India - Meet The Psychiatrist Who Works Inside South Asia’s Largest Prison Complex
Europe
England and Wales - Foston Hall: Report finds women's prison most violent in England
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-63038697
Latvia: Project seeks to help imprisoned women lead a better life
Increasing number of inmates filing complaints of right violations in Turkish prisons, says TIHEK report
News 24 – 26 September
Africa
Nigeria - Prison Congestion: Metuh’s Foundation rallies NASS, NBA, others to stem awaiting trial debacle
Asia
India - E-Mulakat to ease meeting with prisoners
https://punemirror.com/pune/cover-story/E-Mulakat-to-ease-meeting-with-prisoners/cid8604986.htm
India - Justice delayed: Over 1 lakh cases in lower courts more than 30 years old
Guilty until innocent: It’s time India got bail reforms
https://www.sundayguardianlive.com/opinion/guilty-innocent-time-india-got-bail-reforms
Pakistan - Efforts underway to transform prisons into rehabilitation centers
https://pakobserver.net/efforts-underway-to-transform-prisons-into-rehabilitation-centers/
Dozens of Vietnamese lawyers sign petition to abolish prisoners’ foot shackles
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/vietnam/foot-shackles-09262022011913.html
Europe
Cyprus - Prolonged prison guards strike causing security concerns at central prison
England and Wales - Why prisoners are spending more time in their cells
https://www.economist.com/britain/2022/09/22/why-prisoners-are-spending-more-time-in-their-cells
England and Wales - Urgent call for review into sentencing pregnant women due to health risks
Ireland – Four life sentence prisoners have been in jail for over 40 years
Scotland - Trial scheme launched to increase victim confidence in justice system
Oceania
Australia - ‘Institutionalised’ inmate helped spark Parklea prison riot
News 23 September
Americas
Barbados - Prison on mission to boost food security
https://barbadostoday.bb/2022/09/22/prison-on-mission-to-boost-food-security/
UN Torture Prevention Body to visit Ecuador amid prison crisis
US - How Prison Visit Restrictions Force Parents to Make Tough Decisions
https://theappeal.org/how-prison-visit-restrictions-force-parents-to-make-tough-decisions/
Asia
India - Over 600 Vacancies In Delhi Prisons, Delhi High Court Told
https://www.livelaw.in/news-updates/delhi-prisons-600-vacancies-high-court-told-210035
Taiwan - Cabinet approves bill to amend minimum security prison rules
https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202209220027
Europe
Italy - 25 guards probed for beating prisoners at Ivrea
How Norwegian prisons prepare inmates to become better neighbors
Scotland's Sheriff Courts: Serious criminal trials backlog until 2026
News 22 September
Africa
South Africa - Popcru wants more invested in police and correctional officers
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/popcru-wants-more-invested-in-police-and-correctional-officers/
Americas
US - Jail and prison will never be places a person with mental illness finds healing
US (Tennessee) Private prison contractor CoreCivic hit with two new lawsuits over inmate deaths
US - New York Prisons Are Blatantly Violating State Law Limiting Solitary Confinement
Asia
India - Over 19% prisoners on interim bail or emergency parole yet to return to Delhi jails: RTI
Malaysia - RM270mil saved through out of prison rehab programmes, says deputy minister
Oceania
Australia - Disability royal commission examines poor treatment and 'disgusting' conditions in criminal justice system
New Zealand - Despite Govt concern, Māori are a growing majority of those sent to prison
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/maori-are-growing-majority-of-those-sent-to-prison
News 21 September
Africa
Gambia - Over 200 inmates, prison officers vaccinated against covid-19
Why has Kenya not abolished the death penalty? Habit and inertia
https://theconversation.com/why-has-kenya-not-abolished-the-death-penalty-habit-and-inertia-189955
Americas
US - Hundreds of prison and jail deaths go uncounted by the federal government, report finds
US - Voters in 5 states to decide in November whether to abolish forced prison labor
Asia
Overcrowded Indian jails a blot on society
https://www.thestatesman.com/india/overcrowded-indian-jails-a-blot-on-society-1503113495.html
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards to continue strike, new protest on Wednesday
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/09/20/prison-guards-to-continue-strike-new-protest-on-wednesday/
England and Wales - Youth custody system ‘dysfunctional’ and failing girls, report finds
Ireland - Why we need proper scrutiny of what happens behind prison walls
https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-40965704.html
Norway - High mortality rates after release from prison
‘We thieves and killers are now fighting Russia’s war’: how Moscow recruits from its prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/sep/20/russia-recruits-inmates-ukraine-war-wagner-prigozhin
Scotland - Prison population health needs: synthesis report
Oceania
Australia - What kind of country are we to treat children in prison with such cruelty and brutality?
New Zealand - Frustration grows as lawyers, whānau denied face-to-face prisoner visits
News 17 – 20 September
Africa
Report: 32 detainees died in Egypt's prisons this year
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20220916-report-32-detainees-died-in-egypts-prisons-this-year/
Equatorial Guinea abolishes death penalty, state television reports
Americas
Haitian Prisoners Face Starvation and Death
https://insightcrime.org/news/haitian-prisoners-face-starvation-death/
US - School of Law members raise concerns as dementia rates in prison climb
US - Massachusetts Scraps Fees for Probation and Parole
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/09/16/massachusetts-scraps-fees-for-probation-and-parole/
Asia
Human right organization warns against ‘inhumane conditions’ facing inmates at Bahrain’s Jau Prison
Malaysia - Prison reform needs immediate action
https://aliran.com/civil-society-voices/prison-reform-needs-immediate-action
Europe
Cyprus - Prison guards demonstrate over pay
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/09/19/prison-guards-demonstrate-over-pay/
Oceania
Forum aims to find solutions for challenges facing Pacific prisons
https://www.fijitimes.com/forum-aims-to-find-solutions-for-challenges-facing-pacific-prisons/
Australia - Mother-baby unit at Tasmania's Risdon prison has been underutilised, a report has found
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-09-19/mother-baby-unit-in-prison-underutilised/101447646
New Zealand - Flagship Corrections strategy dents prison numbers but other changes slow-going
News 15-16 September
Americas
Mexico has released nearly 2,700 prisoners early as overall jail population grows
US - Prisoner Advocates Turn to the UN to End Extreme Prison Sentences
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/extreme-prison-sentences-united-nations/
Asia
India - Societal Rehabilitation Vital
https://www.thedispatch.in/societal-rehabilitation-vital/
India - Punjab: Inmates with good conduct can now meet family for an hour in jail complex
Malaysia - Prison Reform Needs Immediate Attention — KLSCAH
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2022/09/15/prison-reform-needs-immediate-attention-klscah/
Europe
England and Wales - Delays leave man facing four years in Leicester jail without trial
Ireland - Former inspector of prisons warns complaints system is 'not fit for purpose'
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40962266.html
Oceania
Australia - NT a world leader in prison rates: report
https://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/7905528/nt-a-world-leader-in-prison-rates-report/
Australia - Fears for safety of incarcerated children after fire in Perth maximum security prison
New Zealand - Legal action filed to stop Corrections moving women from Arohata Prison
News 14 September
Africa
Cabo Verde: Electronic ankle bracelets introduced as alternative to prison
Egypt: 3 prisoners die over 48 hours in prison
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20220914-egypt-3-prisoners-die-over-48-hours-in-prison/
Americas
US - REPORT: Number of Black Americans serving long prison sentences far exceeds other groups
US - Administrative Barriers to Decarceration
https://www.theregreview.org/2022/09/14/rauenzahn-administrative-barriers-to-decarceration/
US - Monkeypox In Prisons: Urgent Action Needed To Avoid A Public Health Crisis
Oceania
New Zealand - Thousands of prisoners denied visits due to Corrections' Covid policy
News 13 September
Africa
Nigeria - Prison decongestion: Aregbesola seeks special funding for completion of 9,000 capacity custodial facilities
Americas
US - To Reduce Labor Shortages, Chicago Tries to Ease the Path From Prison Into Jobs
US - In Texas youth prisons, children trapped in their cells use water bottles and lunch trays for toilets
https://www.texastribune.org/2022/09/12/texas-juvenile-prisons-crisis/
Asia
India - SC: Lodging juveniles in adult prisons amounts to deprivation of their personal liberty
Malaysia - Alternative sentences to death penalty finalised, to be presented to Cabinet, says Wan Junaidi
Philippines - Bureau of Corrections frees over 300 prisoners
https://www.rappler.com/nation/bureau-corrections-frees-prisoners-september-13-2022/
Europe
Greece - Young offenders can pick community service over jail time
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1193143/young-offenders-can-pick-community-service-over-jail-time/
Isle of Man - Youth justice system 'disjointed' and not helping reoffending rates
Turkey - Women prisoners in Diyarbakır Women's Closed jail go on hunger strike against rights violations
Oceania
Australia - Vic prison population more than doubles
https://www.hawkesburygazette.com.au/story/7900072/vic-prison-population-more-than-doubles/
Australia - Aboriginal man dies in custody, the second in Victoria in just over a month
News 10 – 12 September
Americas
Bermuda - Government ignoring prison officers, says OBA
US - Bureau Of Prisons’ Interpretation Of First Step Act Will Leave Thousands Of Inmates Incarcerated
Asia
India - ‘Judicial reforms needed to decongest prisons’: Activists on latest NCRB data
Malaysia - How the prison department helps inmates return to the outside world
Philippines - Elderly, frail PDLs to be prioritized for clemency grant
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1183462
Europe
England and Wales - The tower is crumbling and is a 'danger to staff' and prisoners say they felt safer during Covid: Inside Strangeways this year
Council of Europe Anti-Torture Committee holds High Level Talks in Greece on prison reform
Oceania
Australia - Seeking mental health and substance use support isn’t keeping people from going back to jail
News 9 September
Americas
US - Lengthy Prison Terms Not ‘Significant Deterrent’ to Crime: Report
US (California) - ‘Barbaric’ L.A. County jail conditions alleged as ACLU seeks federal intervention
US - Data shows New York is violating a new law banning solitary confinement
https://gothamist.com/news/data-shows-new-york-is-violating-a-new-law-banning-solitary-confinement
Europe
England and Wales - Defendants accused of violent crimes released from prison due to barristers’ strike delays
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/barristers-strike-trials-released-jail-b2162565.html
England and Wales - Publication of Government response to Covid-19 and the Criminal Law report and updated response on Legal Aid
News 8 September
Americas
US - Fighting an Unjust System, Bail Project Gets People Out of Jail, Reunites Families
US - Families demand a plan to stop COVID spread in prisons
https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2022-09-07/families-demand-a-plan-to-stop-covid-spread-in-prisons
US - Michigan prison set to close amid declining prisoner population; lawmaker objects
US - Florida's prison inmate population will likely increase, and there's already a staffing shortage
Asia
Philippines - DoJ told to address jail congestion
https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2022/09/07/473155/doj-told-to-address-jail-congestion/
Philippines - Almost 95% of BuCor’s PDLs vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2022/09/08/almost-95-of-bucors-pdls-vaccinated/
Europe
England and Wales - English prisons face strike ballot in low pay dispute
https://www.ucu.org.uk/article/12497/English-prisons-face-strike-ballot-in-low-pay-dispute
Malta - Treatment of detained people is back under scrutiny
https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/treatment-detained-people-back-scrutiny.979391
Oceania
Australia - Inadequate post-release support drives up reincarceration rates: study
Australia - No education for detainees for more than a year at Canberra's jail
https://the-riotact.com/no-education-for-detainees-for-more-than-a-year-at-canberras-jail/589910
News 7 September
Americas
Opinion: Solitary confinement is torture. U.S. prisons should stop using it.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/09/06/solitary-confinement-torture-prison/
Formerly Incarcerated People and Advocacy Organizations Urge Reform of US Bureau of Prisons
US - Colorado prison and jail populations reaching pre-COVID levels or higher
Asia
77 percent of India’s prisoners are undertrials: NCRB
Human rights groups condemn torture in Lebanese prisons
Malaysia - Design therapeutic prisons to improve wellbeing of staff, inmates
Nepal - National Assembly endorses Prison Bill, two other proposals
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/131317/
Europe
England and Wales - Staffing crisis at prison near Rugby is 'one of the worst' ever seen, say inspectors
Oceania
New Zealand - Prison turns life upside down – giving low-risk prisoners longer to prepare for their sentences would benefit everyone
News 6 September
Americas
Bermuda - Prison officers under pressure, Labour Day attendees told
Jamaica - Gov't identifies land to build new, modern prison - Holness
https://jamaica.loopnews.com/content/govt-identifies-land-build-new-modern-prison-holness
Asia
India - Supreme Court Issues Notice In Plea Seeking Reforms In Mental Healthcare Facilities In Prisons Across The Country
Malaysia - Prison, not the end of the line for inmates
https://www.malaysianow.com/news/2022/09/06/prison-not-the-end-of-the-line-for-inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Hundreds have spent 15 years in jail under abolished indefinite sentences
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/ipp-prisoners-15-years-jail-indefinite-sentences/
England and Wales - HMP Berwyn competently run but improvement needed and “plagued” by staff shortages inspectors say
Quarter of Scots prison population still awaiting trial
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-62799706
Oceania
Australia - NSW deploys facial recognition system into prisons
https://www.innovationaus.com/nsw-deploys-facial-recognition-system-into-prisons/
News 3 – 5 September
Americas
Antigua - UWI to offer more scholarships to HMP residents
https://antiguaobserver.com/uwi-to-offer-more-scholarships-to-hmp-residents/
Mexico debates its no-bail policy for nonviolent suspects
Asia
India - States should modernise jails, prison reforms law coming: Amit Shah
Israel's AG Pushes to Build Thousands of Prison Cells Despite Top Court, Ministries' Opposition
Jordan: Rise in juvenile suicide cases necessitates scrutiny of juvenile justice system
Kyrgyzstan - Many prisons still have cruel and degrading conditions of detention – NCPT
Europe
England and Wales - Hundreds of people being held on remand for years before standing trial
Estonia - Ministry of Justice plans to merge prison medicine with general healthcare
Ireland - Prison officers take over 17,000 sick days in two years due to mental health issues as stress takes toll
https://www.thesun.ie/news/9352500/prison-officers-17000-sick-days-two-years-mental-health/
Italy - New record 59 jail suicides this year
Portugal - President approves law on the installation of landline telephones in prison cells
Oceania
Australia - Victorian Liberal MP urges UN to investigate youth justice facilities over ‘serious breaches’ of human rights
News 2 September
Americas
St Vincent & the Grenadines - Skills for Youth Employment Program has been launched in SVG prisons
https://www.stvincenttimes.com/skills-for-youth-employment-program-has-been-launched-in-svg-prisons/
US - Prison air conditioning is coming too slowly for those who need it most
https://grist.org/equity/prison-air-conditioning-american-rescue-plan/
US - When Release Conditions End in Unjust Confinement
https://www.aclu.org/news/smart-justice/when-release-conditions-end-in-unjust-confinement
Asia
Palestinian prisoners halt mass hunger strike after Israel ‘ends punitive measures’
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/palestine-israel-detainees-mass-hunger-strike-jails
Europe
Greek prisons overcrowded, undignified: CoE report
https://www.macaubusiness.com/greek-prisons-overcrowded-undignified-coe-report/
Oceania
New Zealand - Mothers and children face separation as Arohata Prison inmates moved out
News 1 September
Americas
US - 11,000 Federal Inmates Were Sent Home During the Pandemic. Only 17 Were Arrested for New Crimes.
US - Ohio's expedited pardons provide a quicker path to a fresh start
https://www.ideastream.org/news/ohios-expedited-pardons-provide-a-quicker-path-to-a-fresh-start
Asia
Indonesia’s zero tolerance drug laws leave hundreds on death row
Palestinian prisoners held by Israel set to go on mass hunger strike
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-62730160
Philippines - About 10,000 PDLs at New Bilibid get booster shots against Covid-19
https://mb.com.ph/2022/09/01/about-10000-pdls-at-new-bilibidget-booster-shots-against-covid-19/
More than 2,400 people to be pardoned on Vietnam’s National Day
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/vietnam/more-than-2400-people-to-be-pardoned-09012022012756.html
Europe
Ireland - Justice Minister Helen McEntee wants to see fewer petty criminals sent to jail
Oceania
New Zealand - Gang members increasing number of attacks on prison guards
https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/09/01/gang-members-increasing-number-of-attacks-on-prison-guards/
News 31 August
Americas
US - California could soon restrict the use of solitary confinement in prisons and jails
Europe
England and Wales - Reducing reoffending ultimate aim of Thames Valley pilot prison scheme
Ireland - Murderers could face a minimum 25 years in prison as judges get new powers under sweeping reforms
News 24 – 30 August
Africa
Kenya - Thika inmates trained in making paper products for income
Americas
Canada - Public safety minister adds new rules on prison ‘dry cells’ for suspected contraband
US - Impact of COVID-19 on State and Federal Prisons, March 2020–February 2021
US - At $249 per day, prison stays leave ex-inmates deep in debt
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-hartford-laws-new-hampshire-illinois-b2154017.html
US - Mental health staffing shortage exacerbates stress among Alabama inmates, experts say
US - Locking up People with Mental Health Conditions Doesn’t Make Anyone Safer
https://www.vera.org/news/locking-up-people-with-mental-health-conditions-doesnt-make-anyone-safer
The Bosses Who Run Venezuela's Most Lawless Prisons
https://insightcrime.org/news/venezuelas-most-lawless-prisons-prison-gangs/
Asia
Cambodia will study suggestions by UN rights envoy that prisoners be granted more time in the yard and with family
India - Monitoring prisoners difficult due to overcrowding: Tihar Jail officials
A Separate Bail Law Can Help Decongest India's Jails: Experts
Pakistan - Islamabad Will Soon Get Its First Modern Prison
https://www.incpak.com/national/islamabad-will-soon-get-its-first-modern-prison/
Philippines inmates protest against prison food and warden by climbing on roof
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners at Norfolk jail 'break rules without challenge', report reveals
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/crime/wayland-prison-inspection-warning-staff-shortage-risks-9229258
Go-karting event for prisoners was a mistake, French governor admits
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/go-karting-french-prisoners-fresnes-b2152026.html
Oceania
Australia - Victoria paying more than $1m a day to keep unsentenced prisoners in jail
News 23 August
Africa
Cabo Verde: State wants alternatives to jail to promote prisoner reintegration
Americas
Ecuador taking prisoner census after more than 400 prison murders since 2020
El Salvador’s President Bukele arrests 1 percent of population in four-month “state of exception”
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2022/08/22/erya-a22.html
US - There Continues to Be Lack of Info About COVID-19 in Jail
https://www.governing.com/now/there-continues-to-be-lack-of-info-about-covid-19-in-jail
US - COVID tests at California prison’s linked to ‘potential breach’ of visitors personal data
https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/article264772074.html
Asia
Bangladesh - Inmates at overcrowded Faridpur jail suffer for lack of medical facilities
At least 35 North Korean prisoners are said to have starved to death in July
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/korea/prison_deaths-08222022184150.html
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Lewes progress 'disappointing', watchdog says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-62643072
England and Wales - Crisis deepens in criminal justice system
Turkish justice minister promises reforms to improve healthcare in prisons
https://stockholmcf.org/turkish-justice-minister-promises-reforms-to-improve-healthcare-in-prisons/
News 20 – 22 August
Africa
How COVID-19 transformed the Kenyan court system
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/covid-19-kenya-court-system-60-minutes-2022-08-21/
South Africa - Corruption, ineffective rehabilitation in prisons a problem, says expert
Americas
US - Released during COVID, some people are sent back to prison with little or no warning
US - New York’s ageing prisoners languish with poor medical care and little hope
Europe
England and Wales - The urgent need for change in prisons after survey finds women face high levels of racism by staff
Criminal barristers in England and Wales vote to go on indefinite strike
https://www.theguardian.com/law/2022/aug/22/barristers-england-wales-vote-indefinite-strike
England and Wales - Over 300 years of jail time has been added to criminals' sentences since the start of 2021
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/over-300-years-jail-time-24798236
Ireland - Homeless prisoners: ‘It was better to be in prison than on the streets’
Oceania
New Zealand - Otago prison: 'Unacceptable' CCTV in use in some cells, bathrooms
https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/08/22/otago-prison-unacceptable-cctv-in-use-in-some-cells-bathrooms/
News 19 August
Americas
Canada - Inmates building community in B.C. prison through totem pole project
US - Conditions in prisons during heat waves pose deadly threats to incarcerated people and prison staff
Asia
Justice deterred is justice denied for Indonesia’s victims of crime
With Israeli Prisons Full, Detainees Are Sleeping on Police Station Floors
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Spring Hill inspection highlights ‘awful’ accommodation
Turkey - Inmate who publicized mistreatment in Silivri Prison is subjected to disciplinary punishment
News 18 August
Americas
El Salvador plans to open 'mega prison' after 50,000 gang members arrested
https://www.unilad.com/news/el-salvador-mega-prison-gangs-crime-arrests-20220817
US - 'We're fighting a beast': Families accuse private prisons of failing to help dying loved ones
Asia
India - New jail manual promises welfare of prisoners in UP
Indonesia - 2,000 Inmates in Jakarta Prisons Receive Independence Remission
https://en.tempo.co/read/1623973/2000-inmates-in-jakarta-prisons-receive-independence-remission
Philippines eyes ‘world-class’ top-security prison
Europe
Ireland - More than 100 former inmates registered with emergency homeless services ‘on day of prison release’
Oceania
New Zealand - Prisons an 'inhumane environment' doing little to rehabilitate offenders - ex-inmate
News 17 August
Americas
US - DOJ watchdog publishes data dashboard to track COVID-19 vaccinations of prison inmates
US - Prisoner’s Death by Suicide Is 12th This Year at New York’s Rikers Island Jail
US (Virginia) - ACLU challenges amendment blocking inmates' early release
Europe
England and Wales - Paraplegic inmate taken to hospital in handcuffs among thousands of prison complaints
Italy - 52 prison suicides this year
Scotland - Courts backlog has shrunk by 7,500 trials since January
https://www.scottishlegal.com/articles/courts-backlog-has-shrunk-by-7500-trials-since-january
Oceania
Australia - Number of women being sentenced to prison in Queensland quadruples in 15 years
Australia - Plans For Indigenous-Led NSW Prison Pilot Criticised By Advocates
https://junkee.com/indigenous-led-prison-nsw/338983
News 16 August
Americas
US - Report Details ‘Cruel’ And ‘Unconscionable’ Treatment Of Patients In Illinois Prisons
https://theappeal.org/illinois-prison-healthcare-lawsuit-settlement/
Asia
Pakistan - Prisoners conjugal rights: Govt asked to reopen family quarters in jails
Qatar - MoI boosts co-operation with QRCS on in-prison care, rehabilitation
Europe
England and Wales - Barristers’ strike disrupts more than 6,000 court hearings in first 19 days as action escalates
Oceania
New Zealand - No visits, limited video calls 'taken away any positives' for inmates
News 13 – 15 August
Africa
South Africa - Prisoners due for parole stuck in jail due to system failures
Americas
Canada - HMP on the verge of total lockdown as prison grapples with lack of guards
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/hmp-looming-lockdown-1.6549752
Mexico prison cartel clash spills on to streets of border city leaving 11 dead
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/aug/12/mexico-prison-cartel-violence-ciudad-juarez
Confronting America’s ‘Cruel and Unusual’ Juvenile Detention Crisis
US - New York restricts families from sending packages to inmates
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-new-york-albany-doritos-andrew-cuomo-b2144839.html
Asia
India - As pandemic fades, Maharashtra’s prisons are once again overcrowded
https://theprint.in/india/as-pandemic-fades-maharashtras-prisons-are-once-again-overcrowded/1081997/
Saudi Arabia - Attorney General launches procedural guide to supervise prisons, detention centers
Thailand - Royal birthdays bring over 100,000 royal prison pardons
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/crime/royal-birthdays-bring-over-100000-royal-prison-pardons
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, July 2022
England and Wales - Rise in self-harm in women’s prisons
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/female-prisoners-more-likely-to-self-harm
Slovenian prisons lack 15% of prison officers
https://english.sta.si/3069141/slovenian-prisons-lack-15-of-prison-officers
News 12 August
Americas
2 dead, 4 injured in riot at northern Mexico border prison
US - Repurposing Correctional Facilities to Strengthen Communities
US (Washington) - WA state delays watchdog reports on prisons, concerning advocates
https://crosscut.com/politics/2022/08/wa-state-delays-watchdog-reports-prisons-concerning-advocates
Europe
England and Wales - Prison inspectors find poor living conditions and staffing shortages at HMP Wayland in Norfolk
Almost 1.5m England and Wales crime victims opt not to pursue cases
England and Wales - Crown court backlog edges up further
https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/crown-court-backlog-edges-up-further/5113415.article
Ireland - Prisons used as a ‘dumping ground’ for the mentally ill
https://www.newstalk.com/news/prisons-used-as-a-dumping-ground-for-the-mentally-ill-1371711
Oceania
Australia - ‘Harrowing’ incidents of self-harm revealed among boys held at Perth adult prison
Australia - Power outages at Darwin Correctional Centre spark concerns over access to justice, prisoner welfare
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-12/darwin-prison-power-outages-disrupt-services/101315502
Australia (NSW) - First Nations Prison Rate Climbs, Despite Pandemic Drop in Overall Inmate Numbers
News 11 August
Africa
Hundreds escape DRC prison in deadly jailbreak
https://www.trtworld.com/africa/hundreds-escape-drc-prison-in-deadly-jailbreak-59619
Zimbabwe - 'Virtual courts may infringe rights'
https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-222243.html
Americas
US - Women’s Prisons Are Filled With Domestic Violence Survivors. A New Type of Law Could Help Them Get Out.
US - Court sides with Oregon governor over early prison releases
https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-oregon-pandemics-crime-aac4dc55930391b6cbdb7f0c2a0e42e0
Asia
Thailand’s inmates fight for glory in prison muay Thai championship
https://www.laprensalatina.com/thailands-inmates-fight-for-glory-in-prison-muay-thai-championship/
Europe
Belgium - Justice Department heads to heavy metal festival to recruit new prison staff
Cyprus - Minister denies prison spying on inmates
https://www.financialmirror.com/2022/08/10/minister-denies-prison-spying-on-inmates/
Oceania
Australia - Murder charge prompts NSW prison strike
Australia - New smoking ban in WA prisons prompt fears of jail riots
News 10 August
Africa
South Africa - Prison torture case: Inmates sue justice minister for almost R10 million
Americas
US - ACLU-MN sues Minnesota DOC for re-imprisoning people on conditional medical release
Europe
England and Wales - Ex-prisoners to help build new 'mega' prison at Full Sutton near York
Oceania
New Zealand Labour repeals three-strikes law its says led to ‘absurd’ sentences
New Zealand - Prisoners locked in cells for 22 hours a day amid staff shortages
News 9 August
Americas
US - New York will no longer use 'inmate' for people in prison
US - Human Rights violations in prisons throughout the South causes disparate and lasting harm in Black Communities
US - California puts some of its most vulnerable prisoners in solitary confinement. A state bill would change that
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/solitary-confinement-california-prisons-17360532.php
Asia
India - Ease of justice wanted for undertrials
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/ease-of-justice-wanted-for-undertrials-420158
Philippines - Bill seeking to establish penal farms across regions filed at the Senate
Europe
Cyprus - MEP sounds alarm at EU parliament over prison phone surveillance
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/08/09/mep-sounds-alarm-at-eu-parliament-over-prison-phone-surveillance/
England and Wales - New prison could be extended to house almost 2,000 inmates, Government reveals
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/new-prison-could-extended-house-7436346
Ireland - Prison officers drafted into Mountjoy to deal with 'crisis' amid murder and riot
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/prison-officers-drafted-mountjoy-deal-27688516
Oceania
Australia - ACT Drug and Alcohol Court saves Canberrans millions of dollars by diverting offenders from jail to treatment
News 6-8 August
Americas
US - Senate to hold hearing on crisis-plagued federal prisons
US - 17 States and DC Have Stopped Reporting Active COVID Cases Behind Bars
US - Documentary highlights lack of accessibility for deaf and disabled people in Florida justice system
US (California) - Opinion: With COVID surges, there’s no return to normalcy in jails and prisons
Asia
India - Take action on releasing prisoners in jail for long: SC to Centre, States
Iran - Women political prisoners contract Coronavirus in Evin Prison
https://iran-hrm.com/2022/08/07/women-political-prisoners-contract-coronavirus-in-evin-prison/
New hangings take Singapore execution toll to 10 in four months
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2136691/world
Philippines - Congested prisons? Robin’s solution is to ‘regionalize’ them
https://mb.com.ph/2022/08/08/congested-prisons-robins-solution-is-to-regionalize-them/
Europe
England and Wales - Thousands of prison staff and inmates attacked in North East prisons
Turkey - Preventing prison visits violates Constitution, top court rules
https://bianet.org/english/law/265570-preventing-prison-visits-violates-constitution-top-court-rules
Oceania
Australia - Yarning circles in NSW prisons aim to reduce Indigenous incarceration rates
News 5 August
Americas
Cayman Islands - Government moves ahead with new prison plans
https://caymannewsservice.com/2022/08/government-moves-ahead-with-new-prison-plans/
Europe
Irish Prison Service abandoned project to electronically tag prisoners after spending more than €850,000
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-service-abandoned-project-27659163
Ireland - Violent protest by over 40 inmates at Mountjoy as prisoners removed and sent to other jails
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/crime/violent-protest-over-40-inmates-27664325
Italy finalises justice reform to help unlock EU funding
Oceania
Australia - ‘We will see a death’: advocates fear for children inside maximum-security Perth prison after boy self-harms
News 4 August
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak reported at N.B. prison as 17 inmates test positive
Sentencing Project Report Seeks to ‘Unlock the Vote’ in America’s Jails
Asia
India - 42 prisoners test positive for Covid-19 in Haridwar jail
Korea - Jail term for unpaid fines too harsh
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2022/08/251_333862.html
Philippines - 4,461 BuCor’s prisoners freed as of July 22
https://mb.com.ph/2022/08/04/4461-bucors-prisoners-freed-as-of-july-22/
Sri Lanka - COVID-19: Prisons Dept. starts administering fourth dose
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2022/08/04/covid-19-prisons-dept-starts-administering-fourth-dose/
Europe
England and Wales - Plans announced for £400m ‘smart prison’
Northern Ireland - Naomi Long: Court system could remain backlogged until 2028 without extra investment
Oceania
Australia - As Victoria's incarceration rate rises, children of jailed parents are 'invisible victims', report says
New Zealand - Prison wing rendered 'uninhabitable' after 24-hour rooftop standoff
News 3 August
Africa
Zimbabwe - More courts to give increasing population access to justice
https://www.herald.co.zw/more-courts-to-give-increasing-population-access-to-justice/
Americas
Garland swears in new US prisons chief in push for reform
https://www.yournewsnet.com/story/47013180/garland-swears-in-new-us-prisons-chief-in-push-for-reform
US - Planting Gardens Behind Bars
https://www.vera.org/news/planting-gardens-behind-bars
US - Women in Massachusetts Prisons Targets of Sexual, Mental Abuse: Study
Europe
Ireland - Pandemic curtails Irish arrests and jail time abroad
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40931564.html
Ireland - Prisoner dies following assault in Mountjoy jail
https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2022/08/03/prisoner-dies-following-assault-in-mountjoy-cell/
Oceania
New Zealand - Fewer inmates, yet prisons spend more on fixing intentional damage
News 2 August
Africa
Report reveals impact of Covid-19 lockdown rules on criminal justice systems
Americas
Canada - Expansion of prison needle exchange programs going ahead despite pandemic delays
US - Expert says inadequate staffing is driving deaths in prisons across the Gulf South
US - The Impact Of COVID-19 On The Health Of Incarcerated Older Adults In California State Prisons
https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/abs/10.1377/hlthaff.2022.00132?journalCode=hlthaff
US - Lawsuit Seeks Compensation For Inmates Over Hawaii’s Response to Covid-19
Asia
23 death row prisoners sue Singapore government for denial of justice
Europe
England and Wales - Charities warn against ministers getting powers to stop early release from jail
England and Wales - Criminal courts face further disruption as barristers strike for fifth week
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/london-old-bailey-government-ministry-of-justice-b1015999.html
Oceania
New Zealand - Rooftop prison standoff by teen inmates likely a 'cry for help'
News 30 July – 1 August 2022
Africa
Moroccan king pardons 1,769 prisoners on occasion of Throne Day
http://www.china.org.cn/world/Off_the_Wire/2022-07/30/content_78349215.htm
Americas
Guyana - Restorative Justice Bill tabled in National Assembly
US - Prison Health Expert Warns Monkeypox Could “Dramatically Increase” Behind Bars, Calls for CDC Action
https://www.democracynow.org/2022/7/29/monkeypox_outbreak_dr_homer_venters
Asia
India - ‘Women are doubly marginalised in jails’: Hurdles to gender-sensitive prison reforms
India - Undertrial prisoners languishing in jails; provide legal aid to speed up their release: PM Narendra Modi
Europe
England and Wales - Construction starts in Rochester at 'revolutionary' first UK secure school
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/construction-starts-on-uks-first-secure-school-271071/
News 29 July
Americas
US (Massachusetts) - Inmates sue prison system over solitary confinement policies
https://www.lowellsun.com/2022/07/28/inmates-sue-prison-system-over-solitary-confinement-policies/
Europe
Belgian prisoners demonstrate against poor conditions, administration responds
England and Wales - Self-harm and suicides on the rise in prisons, Ministry of Justice reveals
England and Wales - Violence has doubled in six months at London’s largest prison
News 28 July
Americas
Haiti - Gunshots, fires and new tensions in Port-au-Prince spark fear of prison break, more trouble
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article263877602.html
US - Hundreds of Thousands of Incarcerated People Are in Danger Amid Scorching Heat
Asia
Easy targets: Drug mules fill women’s jails in Hong Kong
https://www.digitaljournal.com/world/easy-targets-drug-mules-fill-womens-jails-in-hong-kong/article
Europe
Estonia - Madise recommends Tallinn Prison improve conditions for female inmates
France's rights violations in prisons continue amid a crushing heatwave
Oceania
Australia - Coroner slams lack of 'safe' cells at Perth's Acacia Prison after young Indigenous man's suicide
Australia - Transitional housing support for Indigenous men leaving prison aims to reduce recidivism rates
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-28/housing-support-for-indigenous-men-leaving-prison/101272428
New Zealand - Victims at risk as justice stalled due to 'exorbitant' court delays
New Zealand - Corrections scrutinises failing drug and alcohol programmes
https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/07/28/corrections-scrutinizes-failing-drug-and-alcohol-programmes/
News 27 July
Americas
US - Prisons chief deflects blame for failures, angering senators
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-jon-ossoff-atlanta-bureau-of-prisons-ron-johnson-b2131950.html
US - How Electronic Monitoring Incentivizes Prolonged Punishment
US (Indiana) - Dozens of Inmates Raped, Assaulted, and Harassed After Jailer Sold Male Prisoner a Key to Women’s Wing, Federal Lawsuit Claims
Asia
Cambodia - ‘Parole motivating prisoners to behave’
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501120078/parole-motivating-prisoners-to-behave/
Europe
Denmark - Prison staff facing less threats and violence at work
Northern Ireland - Prison Service Must Be 'Adequately Resourced'
https://www.4ni.co.uk/northern-ireland-news/287745/prison-service-must-be-adequately-resourced
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Pandemic policing: The impact of COVID-19 fines on the justice system
https://lsj.com.au/articles/pandemic-policing-the-impact-of-covid-19-fines-on-the-justice-system/
Australia (ACT) - Visitors banned as prison battles new covid outbreak
https://citynews.com.au/2022/visitors-banned-as-prison-battles-new-covid-outbreak/
News 26 July
Africa
Nigeria’s jailbreaks point to a prison system out of step with reality
Americas
US - Rates of solitary confinement of incarcerated people with mental illness three times higher than those without mental illness
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/959791
US - Senators demand answers about federal prisons’ scant use of Covid therapeutics
https://www.statnews.com/2022/07/26/senate-letter-covid-therapeutics-prison/
US - Inmates sue over ‘unsafe and unacceptable’ COVID conditions in CT prisons
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/Inmates-sue-over-unsafe-and-unacceptable-17326957.php
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Alarming’ increase in self-harm in women’s prisons as more vulnerable people to be jailed, report says
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/women-prisons-self-harm-suicide-b2130824.html
England and Wales - MPs concerned over how new ‘untested’ Swansea centre for female prisoners ‘will operate in practice’
England and Wales - Praise For 'Impressive' Parc YOI's Covid-19 Response
https://www.cypnow.co.uk/news/article/praise-for-impressive-parc-yoi-s-covid-19-response
Russia - Prison Torture Victim Dies From Pneumonia – Reports
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2022/07/26/prison-torture-whistleblower-dies-in-prison-a78404
At least 9 advanced cancer patients in Turkish prisons as of July 2022
https://turkeypurge.com/at-least-9-advanced-cancer-patients-in-turkish-prisons-as-of-july-2022
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid-19 outbreak at Invercargill Prison
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/129389629/covid19-outbreak-at-invercargill-prison
News 23 – 25 July
Africa
Gambia: Housing Facilities At Mile II Prisons Substandard, Unfit for Human Habitation
https://allafrica.com/stories/202207220452.html
Americas
Canada - COVID-19: Thirteen inmates test positive at B.C. medium-security prison
https://globalnews.ca/news/9009794/mission-institution-covid-outbreak/
El Salvador Builds Giant Prison Complex for 40,000 Gang Members
US - Survey Paints Grim Picture of Life in Incarceration
https://prospect.org/justice/survey-paints-grim-picture-of-life-in-incarceration/
US - Nearly half of Oregon’s inmate population included in first class action suit of its kind
US - Temperatures inside Texas prison units regularly reach 110 degrees, new report says
https://edition.cnn.com/2022/07/23/us/texas-prison-temperatures-report/index.html
US - New York Prisons Cut Crucial Lifeline to Incarcerated Individuals and Families Through Arbitrary Package Policy
Asia
India - Thane prison inmates lack proper sleeping spcae: CMO informs Court
India - Yerwada Central Prison holds a three times higher population of prisoners than its official capacity
Malaysia - Prisons Dept targets reducing recidivism rate by 10%
Nepal - Prison management bill ensures reproductive right to inmates
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/prison-management-bill-ensures-reproductive-right-to-inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Two-thirds of remand prisoners who took own lives were on care plans, FoI reveals
‘You can’t bring my boy back’: why are so many UK prisoners dying on remand?
Oceania
Australia - WA premier defends shackling of Indigenous teenagers transferred to adult prison
News 22 July
Africa
Rwanda Teaching Inmates How To Proudly Return To The Community
https://www.ktpress.rw/2022/07/rwanda-teaching-inmates-how-to-proudly-return-to-the-community/
South Africa - Prisons overflowing by 33% – Justice Minister Ronald Lamola
Americas
US - Inmates at two CoreCivic private prisons in Arizona protest inhumane living conditions following power outage
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2022/07/21/arcw-j21.html
Asia
India - More than 40 million cases pending in lower courts: Govt tells Parliament
Govt aims to end overcrowding in Philippine prisons
https://www.ucanews.com/news/govt-aims-to-end-overcrowding-in-philippine-prisons/98117
News 14 – 21 July
Africa
Egypt’s Revolving Jailhouse Door: One Pretrial Detention After Another
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/07/16/world/middleeast/egypt-prisoners.html
Scores of inmates in Zimbabwe want justice served
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/scores-of-inmates-in-zimbabwe-want-justice-served/2638328
Americas
Antigua - ‘It’s criminal’- Prison boss condemns practice of housing mentally ill inmates at HMP
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak at Dorchester Penitentiary spreads
13 killed in Ecuador prison riot – prisons agency
https://www.rappler.com/world/latin-america/ecuador-prison-riot-july-2022/
US - They were released from prison because of COVID. Their freedom didn't last long.
US - We Didn't Release Enough People from Jails and Prisons During the Pandemic
https://www.vera.org/news/we-didnt-release-enough-people-from-jails-and-prisons-during-the-pandemic
US - Racial inequality over long US prison sentences growing, report finds
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jul/21/prisons-us-racial-equality-black-white-americans
US - Kansas corrections system grapples with 22.6% vacancy rate among uniformed prison staff
US - Judge rules against Wisconsin prisons over visitation policy
https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-wisconsin-prisons-lawsuits-2ebb18960f38c2fd28e3102a990c6735
Asia
Cambodia - NGO launching prisoner education programmes
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/ngo-launching-prisoner-education-programmes
India's huge backlog of court cases delays justice: Experts
Nepal - Inmates deprived of basic facilities in overcrowded Morang Prison
Philippines - Digitization of records among measures to decongest crowded jails
Sri Lanka - Incarcerations on the rise – Prisons Dept.
https://www.newsfirst.lk/2022/07/21/incarcerations-on-the-rise-prisons-dept/
Europe
England and Wales - UK prisoners ‘traumatised’ by Covid solitary confinement, study says
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, June 2022
England and Wales - Warnings over 'inconsistent' monitoring of criminals after release from prison
England and Wales - Treatment of UK prisoners during Covid meets UN definition of torture
Dozens commit suicide in Turkish prisons, watchdog says situation reaching ‘crisis levels’
News 13 July
Africa
Mozambique: Deaths of Prisoners Blamed On Security Lapses
https://allafrica.com/stories/202207120622.html
Americas
Jail riot in Dominican Republic leaves one prisoner dead, six injured after inmates protesting inhumane treatment kidnap a guard and set fires to mattresses
‘It’s inhumane’: how US prison work breaks bodies and minds for pennies
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jul/13/us-prison-work-breaks-bodies-minds-for-pennies
US - Covid-19 Strikes Wyoming’s Most Populous Prison as US Cases Rise
Asia
Bangladesh - Virtual courts and the future of justice
https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/news/virtual-courts-and-the-future-justice-1904500
India - Bail, Not Jail: Why Supreme Courts Has Urged Govt To Frame New Bail Act
Europe
England and Wales - Inspectors highlight failings at Nottinghamshire prison
Italy - Inmate COVID infections quadruple in seven days
Scotland - Number of young people inside Polmont prison drops to record low
https://news.stv.tv/east-central/number-of-young-people-inside-polmont-prison-drops-to-record-low
News 12 July
Americas
US - Women In Prison Are Struggling To Access Mental Health And Social Support When They Need It Most
US - The Federal Prisons Agency is Reviewing its Reproductive Care Options for Inmates
Europe
Belgium - Emergency measures to accelerate prison staff hiring
https://www.brusselstimes.com/253278/belgian-government-accelerates-prison-staff-hiring
Public Discussion on Georgia’s Penitentiary System Held
https://civil.ge/archives/500149
Scotland - Prison inspection flags overcrowding issues at HMP Low Moss
News 9 – 11 July
Africa
Eid Al Adha: Morocco’s King pardons nearly 1000 Inmates
https://northafricapost.com/58894-eid-al-adha-moroccos-king-pardons-nearly-1000-inmates.html
Americas
Jamaica - Alarm sounded over collection of prisoners’ DNA
US - ‘They might have to give birth in chains’: Abortion access behind bars after the end of Roe v Wade
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/roe-v-wade-abortions-prison-b2118355.html
Dire US labor shortage provides opportunity for ex-prisoners
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-employment-jackson-covid-waffle-house-b2119833.html
US - South Dakota Prison Officers and inmates say broken promises lead to frustration, safety concerns
US - Florida Prisons Propose Cutting Family Visitations, Drawing Sharp Objections
US - Nebraska's Prison Overcrowding Emergency Now in Third Year
Europe
How does overcrowding in Belgian prisons damage rehabilitation?
England and Wales - If we’re going to reform prisons, we should start with the prisoners
https://www.bigissue.com/opinion/if-were-going-to-reform-prisons-we-should-start-with-the-prisoners/
England and Wales - Criminal courts face further disruption as barristers strike for third week
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/cba-government-supreme-court-preston-birmingham-b2120276.html
Mobile phone and drug seizures in Irish prisons increased by 19% in 2021
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/mobile-phone-drug-seizures-irish-27445490
Oceania
Australia - Prisoner advocates say a lack of programs at Darwin Correctional Centre is contributing to the NT's high reoffending rates
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-11/nt-darwin-prison-programs-reoffending-rates/101205788
News 8 July
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak declared at New Brunswick's Dorchester prison
https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/covid-19-outbreak-in-n-b-prison-1.5978458
Asia
India - 60-year age bar for life convicts removed; move aimed at decongesting U.P. jails
Europe
England and Wales - 'Human books' go into prison to be 'read' by inmates in a bid to open up frank conversations
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/human-books-go-prison-read-24423010
England and Wales - HMP Manchester inmate lay dying with Covid as prison staff refused to tell mum about his condition
Biometrics Commissioner Looks at Facial Recognition in Scottish Prisons
https://findbiometrics.com/biometrics-commissioner-looks-facial-recognition-scottish-prisons-070701/
Oceania
Australia - SA government 'investigating' whether to raise minimum age of criminal responsibility
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-08/sa-push-to-raise-age-of-criminality/101221906
News 7 July
Americas
Barbados - Fewer people in Dodds Prison
https://www.nationnews.com/2022/07/07/fewer-people-dodds-prison/
US - Bureau Of Prisons Holding Inmates For Longer Than Law Allows
Europe
England and Wales - Lewes prisoners locked up for up to 23 hours a day to prevent spread of Covid
Scotland - HMP Glasgow will not solve overpopulation woes, prison chief warns
CPT report on UK: persistent overcrowding and violence in prisons and insufficient legal safeguards for psychiatric patients
Oceania
Australia - Advocates slam 'disgraceful' decision to move youths to adult jail
News 6 July
Americas
OHCHR Asks Honduras To Investigate Prison Gang Massacre
US - Overcrowding, Old Buildings Fueled COVID Surge in California Prisons
US (Oregon) - Incarcerated people at Sheridan prison were denied showers during hunger strike, lawyer says
US - Longstanding hurdles keep attorneys from easily phoning clients in North Dakota prisons
Asia
India - Lack of facilities turns visit to Tiruchy Central Prison a harrowing experience for kin of inmates
Japan - COVID cluster leaves 43 inmates, workers at Osaka Prison infected
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20220706/p2a/00m/0sc/004000c
Europe
England and Wales - Barrister strikes are symptom of Britain’s crumbling criminal justice system
https://www.ft.com/content/55317bbb-706f-40b5-8125-3ee2f023816f
Ireland - Covid-19 has brought a halt to a number of serious criminal cases due in court this week
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/covid-19-brought-halt-number-27406039
Scotland - Stop jailing so many criminals to ease overcrowding, inspector says
Oceania
Australia - ‘Traumatised’ Children Are Being Sent to a Maximum-Security Adult’s Prison in WA
Australia - NT prison officers to strike over pay
https://www.theflindersnews.com.au/story/7809327/nt-prison-officers-to-strike-over-pay/?cs=12
News 5 July
Americas
6 gang members killed in Honduras prison
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/gang-members-killed-honduras-prison-86199308
US - Virginia law stops early inmate releases, angering families
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-virginia-richmond-ford-republican-b2115298.html
US - New York Prisons Ban Care Packages Containing Food
https://therealnews.com/new-york-prisons-ban-care-packages-containing-food
US - DOCCS drops mask mandate in New York prisons
https://www.fingerlakes1.com/2022/07/05/doccs-drops-mask-mandate-in-new-york-prisons/
Asia
As Malaysia Softens Death Penalty Stance, Singapore Sentences More to Be Hanged
https://www.vice.com/en/article/epzd34/malaysia-singapore-death-penalty-abolition
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Brixton: ‘a prison in trouble’
https://www.thejusticegap.com/hmp-brixton-a-prison-in-trouble/
England and Wales - HMP Erlestoke: Report finds 'insufficient progress' with drugs
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-62037202
Scotland - HMP Low Moss: Inmates sharing single cells at overcrowded jail
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-62043866
News 2-4 July
Africa
South Africa - Experts concerned about sudden spike in inmate numbers
Americas
Death toll rises to 53 in Colombian prison fire
https://theprint.in/world/death-toll-rises-to-53-in-colombian-prison-fire/1021253/
US - Prison reform advocates say the Roe ruling will make it easier to deny care to incarcerated pregnant people: 'It just shows the amount of contempt that these systems have for women'
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/prison-reform-advocates-roe-ruling-133200895.html
US - Thousands of federal inmates still await early release under Trump-era First Step Act
US - California Lawmakers Reject Ballot Proposal That Aimed To End Forced Prison Labor
US - Federal Judge Rules Gruesome Medical Neglect in Arizona Prisons Violates Eighth Amendment
US - ‘For Cruelty’s Sake’: State of Alabama diverts $400 million in COVID funds to build prisons, leaving many in dire straits
https://www.splcenter.org/news/2022/07/01/alabama-diverts-400-million-covid-funds-to-prisons
US (Hawaii) - Civil Beat Law Center Goes To Court To Make Prison Covid-19 Reports Public
Asia
Nepal - Prisoners take turn to sleep in crammed jail
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/prisoners-take-turn-to-sleep-in-crammed-jail/
Prison conditions in Singapore 'acceptable'; no fans, mattresses in cells for security: Shanmugam
Singapore - Mental health support given for prison inmates with mild and severe conditions
Europe
England and Wales - Prison 'congratulated' as report reveals 8 convicts and 57 staff caught covid during pandemic
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/prison-congratulated-report-reveals-8-24384651
England and Wales - Investigation launched after death of prisoner at HMP Styal
Irish Prison Service to be placed on statutory basis
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/irish-prison-service-to-be-placed-on-statutory-basis
Ireland - High number of prisoners with mental health issues raised as State faces exam over human rights record
Oceania
Australia - Overcrowding creates 'unacceptable' prison conditions at Darwin Correctional Centre, lawyers claim
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-04/nt-prison-overcrowding/101196858
New Zealand - Prison labour used in new Waikeria Prison build in wake of riot
News 1 July
Africa
Ghana - Prison reform advocates reiterate calls for non-custodial sentencing
https://www.myjoyonline.com/prison-reform-advocates-reiterate-calls-for-non-custodial-sentencing/
Americas
US - Are Virtual Court Proceedings Here To Stay? All Signs Point To Yes.
https://abovethelaw.com/2022/06/are-virtual-court-proceedings-here-to-stay-all-signs-point-to-yes/
US - Rising COVID cases are forcing Kansas to move inmates between prisons
US - 80 people in Oregon’s federal prison go on hunger strike
http://ktvz.com/news/2022/06/30/80-people-in-oregons-federal-prison-go-on-hunger-strike/
Asia
India - 12 prisoners, 7 officers hurt during clashes at Delhi’s Tihar jail
Europe
Belgium - ‘Let us in!’: Saint-Gilles prison outreach staff protest entry restrictions
Luxembourg - Six Schrassig prison officers targeted in brutal attack
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1935280.html
News 30 June
Americas
Bermuda - New officers being trained, but prisons are still short of staff
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners locked up with too little to do, inspectors say
https://www.tivysideadvertiser.co.uk/news/20245146.prisoners-locked-little-inspectors-say/
England and Wales - Women in Prison: Remand in Custody
https://www.thejusticegap.com/women-in-prison-remand-in-custody/
The overcrowded Welsh prison failing to look after the healthcare needs of inmates
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health/overcrowded-welsh-prison-failing-look-24356162
News 29 June
Americas
Canada - ‘Crisis’ in federal correctional institutions due to parole programing backlog, lawyer says
https://www.thelawyersdaily.ca/articles/37589
Canada - How Ontario's new Justice Centres are rethinking criminal justice
COVID-19 mortality rates by race and ethnicity in U.S. state prisons
US (Oregon) - Inmates at federal prison complex in Sheridan went on hunger strike in protest of extensive lockdowns, poor conditions
Asia
Hong Kong - Justice has to remain fair and open in push for remote hearings
India - Corona outbreak in Bihar jails as 80 inmates found positive, 37 from Beur Central Jail
Thailand bars prisons from using inmates to make fishing nets
https://news.trust.org/item/20220628130031-asg2c/
Europe
How has COVID-19 affected the mental health of prison staff in England?
England and Wales - HMP Winchester Governor promises improvements after critical prison inspection report
News 28 June
Africa
Ghana - Sunyani Central Prisons to create separate cell blocks for inmates with minor offences
Americas
Colombian jail riot leaves 49 inmates dead
US - Supreme Court rules for inmates seeking reduced prison terms
US - Health care in jails and prisons is terrible. The pandemic made it even worse.
https://www.vox.com/23175978/health-care-prison-jail-covid-pandemic
Asia
Iran - Four Inmates Sick with Tuberculosis at Qarchak Prison
https://iranwire.com/en/prisoners/105226-four-inmates-sick-with-tuberculosis-at-qarchak-prison
Europe
England and Wales - Raft of major justice reforms come into force
https://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/national/20239426.raft-major-justice-reforms-come-force/
Oceania
New Zealand - Corrections drops vaccine requirements for prison visitors and staff
News 25-27 June
Africa
Ghana - We have a proposal to establish community service structure for convicts – Deputy Attorney-General
Americas
US - Department Of Justice Proposes Final Rule To End CARES Act For Home Confinement For Federal Prisoners
US - Many people recently released from prison find themselves left behind by technology. A new program gets them up to speed.
US - Formerly Incarcerated Women in Tennessee Win Reforms Ending Shackled Births
Asia
India - Nine inmates test positive as Covid-19 cluster found in Nagpur jail
India - State prisons have 166% more inmates than capacity
Europe
England and Wales - Dental care at Teesside prison slammed as 'unacceptable' in annual report
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/dental-care-teesside-prison-slammed-24279867
England and Wales - New treatment launched to prevent suicides in four men's prisons in the north
https://www.itv.com/news/granada/2022-06-27/new-treatment-launched-to-prevent-prisoner-suicide
England and Wales - Prisoners kept in beyond sentences
https://www.henleystandard.co.uk/news/events/173203/prisoners-kept-in-beyond-sentences.html
Ireland - Prison inspector to cover all detention centres under draft laws
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40903196.html
Scotland - Substance use experts tackle health inequalities among people released from prison
News 24 June
Americas
Canada - Proposed class-action lawsuit targets Ottawa over prison practice set to become illegal
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/charter-rights-dry-cell-lawsuit-1.6487153
Haiti: dozens of inmates starve to death as malnutrition crisis engulfs prisons
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jun/23/haiti-prisons-starvation-un-deaths-crisis
US - The Graying of America’s Prison Population
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/06/23/the-graying-of-americas-prison-population/
US - As Governments Push Us “Back to Normal,” Don’t Forget About Prison Conditions
Europe
Prisoners on remand soared to highest level during pandemic as Scotland's prison population fell
One in ten Swiss offenders held in non-prison facilities
https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/one-in-ten-swiss-offenders-held-in-non-prison-facilities/47699774
News 23 June
Africa
Caged and Neglected, the Plight of the Ghanaian Prisoner
https://allafrica.com/stories/202206220303.html
Americas
Canada - Addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system in Québec
US - Chronic Punishment: The unmet health needs of people in state prisons
https://www.prisonpolicy.org/reports/chronicpunishment.html
US - Philadelphia’s troubled jails would get independent oversight in proposed ballot measure
https://www.inquirer.com/news/philadelphia-prison-oversight-board-jail-violence-20220623.html
US - 3 N.Y.C. Detainees Die in Less Than a Week, Bringing Year’s Total to 9
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/22/nyregion/rikers-inmate-deaths.html
Asia
Cambodia - Prisoners receiving fifth Covid-19 vaccinations
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/prisoners-receiving-fifth-covid-19-vaccinations
Malaysia - Prisons driving inmates mad, says NGO
https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2022/06/23/prisons-driving-inmates-mad-says-ngo/
Myanmar - Junta refuses ICRC request to visit prisoners and allow prison visitors
https://www.mizzima.com/article/junta-refuses-icrc-request-visit-prisoners-and-allow-prison-visitors
Europe
England and Wales - Prison to get new workshop to help inmates find jobs on release
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/crime/wayland-prison-to-get-new-workshop-9089516
Inmates in Turkish prisons continue hunger strike despite deteriorating health
News 21 June
Americas
Canada - Ottawa woman, group allege Ontario law on jail strip searches unconstitutional
US - “Mental Health Units” in Prison Are Solitary Confinement by Another Name, Activists Say
Asia
Building of Malaysia’s ‘largest’ prison not helpful in addressing overcrowding or root issues of crime, say experts and NGO
Europe
Sanctions and measures without deprivation of liberty in Europe: annual statistics for 2021
England and Wales - If you decide to cut staff, people die’: how Nottingham prison descended into chaos
England and Wales - HMP Lowdham Grange: Concern over rise in prison assaults
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-61849242
Scottish lawyers express dissatisfaction with virtual court system - new survey
News 18-20 June
Asia
India - Need to hire 400 more staff members to give phone, video call access to jail inmates: Maha govt tells HC
Malaysia’s largest prison, which could house 3,000, to be built in Kelantan, says Home Ministry
Malaysian prison invites big companies to join inmate rehabilitation programmes
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, May 2022
England and Wales - £500 million boost to create thousands of new prison places
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/500-million-boost-to-create-thousands-of-new-prison-places
New data reveals the decline in access to justice in England and Wales
Thousands of victims of violent and sexual crime stuck in England and Wales court backlog
Landline phones being installed in every prison cell in Ireland
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40899083.html
One in four UK prisoners has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, says report
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jun/18/uk-prisoners-attention-deficit-disorder-adhd-prison
Oceania
Australia - More unrest at troubled WA juvenile prison
https://7news.com.au/politics/more-unrest-at-troubled-wa-juvenile-prison-c-7230717
New Zealand - Nearly 800 frontline prison jobs unstaffed as guards quit 'in droves'
News 17 June
Americas
Canada - Backlogged justice system can’t return to pre-pandemic ways, chief justice warns
US - Report: Oklahoma Prisons Plagued With Staffing Shortages, Operational Inefficiencies
US (New York) - Proposed legislation would ban most solitary confinement at Rikers
https://gothamist.com/news/proposed-legislation-would-ban-most-solitary-confinement-at-rikers
Asia
India prison report: More than 75% of those in jail are not convicts but undertrials
India - 1,440 convicts, out on Covid parole, yet to return to jails
Europe
England and Wales - Covid saw HMP Bure prisoners locked in cells for 23 hours a day
https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/crime/hmp-bure-norfolk-prisoners-locked-in-cells-covid-9041730
France urged to drastically improve situation in overcrowded jails
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Law Society briefs AG on benefits of retaining COVID court measures for fairer access to justice
News 16 June
Africa
Nigeria - Senate seeks trial of prison officials over illegal remand of children
Americas
Canada - Prisons are failing to comply with solitary confinement reforms: senators
El Salvador's Security Crackdown May Feed Gang Recruitment
https://insightcrime.org/news/el-salvador-security-crackdown-gang-recruitment-drive/
US prison workers produce $11bn worth of goods and services a year for pittance
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jun/15/us-prison-workers-low-wages-exploited
US (Ohio) - Women more likely in prison due to drugs than men, study finds
Asia
New UAE law to help convicts find job after serving prison term
Europe
England and Wales - Sentencing for serious offences has ‘lost its way’, says report
https://www.thejusticegap.com/sentencing-for-serious-offences-has-lost-its-way-says-report/
Oceania
Australia - WA prisons introducing full-body X-ray scanners to detect hidden contraband
News 15 June
Americas
US - The land of the free leads the world in incarceration. Why?
https://www.vox.com/features/23150068/us-prisons-crime-juneteenth-freedom-2022
US - 1st federal prison to experience COVID-19 outbreak now short-staffed: Officials
https://abcnews.go.com/US/1st-federal-prison-experience-covid-19-outbreak-now/story?id=85388967
Asia
India - Jail inmates-run fuel station to operate 24x7 in Kurukshetra
Pakistan - ‘Blood Screening Mandatory For Jail Inmates’
https://nation.com.pk/2022/06/15/blood-screening-mandatory-for-jail-inmates/
Europe
Belgium - Release prisoners six months early to tackle overcrowding, says Justice Minister
England and Wales - Prison leavers tagged to cut alcohol-fuelled crime
https://www.rugbyobserver.co.uk/lifestyle/prison-leavers-tagged-to-cut-alcohol-fuelled-crime-39170/
News 14 June
Asia
India’s prisons need administrative reforms
Japan - EDITORIAL: Revised penal code should help in rehabilitation of prison inmates
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14644268
Pakistan - Jail officers ordered to enforce prisons reforms
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/966001-jail-officers-ordered-to-enforce-prisons-reforms
Europe
Belgium ordered to tackle worsening situation in prisons
England and Wales - End to Friday prison releases to cut crime
https://www.policeprofessional.com/news/end-to-friday-prison-releases-to-cut-crime/
England and Wales - No showers, 23 and a half hour lock-ups and bad food, says prisoner at Doncaster jail
Ireland - Prison pilot project strengthens family ties
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2022/0613/1304667-prison-pilot-project-strengthens-family-ties/
News 11-13 June
Africa
Zimbabwe - Inmates narrate Remand Prison horror, trash new virtual courts system
https://www.newzimbabwe.com/inmates-narrate-remand-prison-horror-trash-new-virtual-courts-system/
Americas
Canada Moves to Decriminalize Possession of ‘Hard’ Drugs
https://www.wired.com/story/canada-moves-to-decriminalize-possession-of-hard-drugs/
Asia
India - In new policy, UP removes 60-year age bar for release of life-term prisoners
India - Starting afresh: how women at Tihar jail are upskilling, breaking stereotypes
Japan passes bill to make online insults punishable with prison time
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2022/06/13/national/crime-legal/cyberbullying-bill/
Guards deny female inmates drinking water after protest in Myanmar’s Insein Prison
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/insein-06102022190825.html
Pakistan - As judicial lock-up runs out of space, police opt for e-hearing
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2361310/as-judicial-lock-up-runs-out-of-space-police-opt-for-e-hearing
Europe
‘Digital reintegration’: Video visits remain popular in Belgian prisons
News 10 June
Asia
Thailand decriminalizes cannabis, becomes first Asian country to remove ban
Europe
Danish government fails to fund Kosovo prison over EU law row
England and Wales - Crown Court backlog increases
England and Wales - Prison on lockdown with families unable to visit and inmates 'unable to shower'
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/prison-lockdown-families-unable-visit-24184810
Scotland - Concern expressed over courts system backlog
https://www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/news/crime/concern-expressed-over-courts-system-backlog-3726933
News 9 June
Africa
Kenya - Radical inmates and congestion pose challenge for prisons, says Matiang'i
Video Showing How Prisoners In Zimbabwe Sleep Divides Opinion
https://iharare.com/video-showing-how-prisoners-in-zimbabwe-sleep-divides-opinion/
Americas
US - Biden's sentencing panel noms vow to implement criminal justice reform law
Asia
Thailand - Thousands of cannabis offenders being released, but not all
Europe
Scotland - SNP plans to cut prisoner numbers branded 'complete madness'
News 8 June
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t commits to developing infrastructure in prisons
https://www.kbc.co.ke/govt-commits-to-developing-infrastructure-in-prisons/
South Africa: The Justice System Is Showing Signs of Rot
https://allafrica.com/stories/202206070736.html
Americas
Canada - In-person visits suspended at B.C. prison after COVID-19 outbreak
https://globalnews.ca/news/8903181/covid-matsqui-institution-in-person-visits-suspended/
US (Missouri) - Nonprofit trains prison inmates to help fill technology worker shortage
Asia
Fears of tuberculosis outbreak at Bahraini prison
https://www.middleeasteye.net/video/fears-tuberculosis-outbreak-bahraini-prison
Europe
England and Wales - Prison and Probation Service’s tagging ambition ‘outstripped its ability to deliver’
Presumed innocent but detained for months pretrial in Germany and EU
Russian MPs vote to quit European Court of Human Rights
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/6/7/russia-exits-european-court-of-human-rights-jurisdiction
Prison overcrowding remains a problem in prisons in French-speaking Switzerland: Anti-torture committee report
Oceania
Australia - Advocates concerned over use of isolation in Victoria’s youth justice system, despite drop in numbers
News 2- 7 June
Africa
Reforms in Ghana’s Prisons: The Quest to improve lives of inmates
https://newsghana.com.gh/reforms-in-ghanas-prisons-the-quest-to-improve-lives-of-inmates/
South Africa - Over-populated prisons a concern as crime rises in KwaZulu-Natal
Zimbabwe - Chikurubi prison falling apart
https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/06/chikurubi-prison-falling-apart/
Americas
Barbados - Dodds’ COVID cases ‘manageable’
https://barbadostoday.bb/2022/06/02/dodds-covid-cases-manageable/
El Salvador accused of ‘massive’ human rights violations with 2% of adults in prison
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jun/02/el-salvador-human-rights-violations-bukele-amnesty
US - ‘Too little too late’: Unpacking Biden’s moves to improve federal prisons’ response to Covid-19
https://www.statnews.com/2022/06/03/biden-moves-improve-prison-response-covid/
In historic shift, far fewer teens face adult US courts
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-connecticut-philadelphia-data-washington-b2094833.html
US - Michigan prisons ban Spanish and Swahili dictionaries to prevent inmate disruptions
US (North Carolina) - Prisons were some of the hardest hit places during the pandemic. What are the next steps forward?
US - New York’s Prison Package Ban Places New Burdens On The Incarcerated
https://theappeal.org/new-york-prison-package-ban/
US - Inmate Shuffle: How California Bounces Around Its Mentally Ill Prisoners
Asia
Pakistan - Revisions In Jail Manual Proposed To Improve Educational Capacity Of Prisoners
https://www.urdupoint.com/en/pakistan/revisions-in-jail-manual-proposed-to-improve-1520428.html
Singapore - 87% of probation orders that ended last year successfully completed, highest in a decade: MSF
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/msf-probation-orders-community-rehabilitation-2722486
Sri Lanka - Prison labour to be used to cultivate short-term crops
http://www.dailynews.lk/2022/06/07/local/280346/prison-labour-be-used-cultivate-short-term-crops
Thailand - Prison labour hired to clean Bangkok's drains
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2322150/prison-labour-hired-to-clean-bangkoks-drains
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Price to pay’ for boring prison lockdowns, says chief inspector
England and Wales - The impact and recovery from COVID-19 for children in custodial settings
England and Wales - Criminals must pass three new tests before transfer to open prison
Oceania
Australia - Inhumane conditions in Tas prison: judge
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7766528/inhumane-conditions-in-tas-prison-judge/
New Zealand - Mt Eden prison staff crisis: 102 vacancies, double-bunking to increase nationally
News 1 June
Americas
Canada - Prison service must do more to remove barriers for Indigenous, Black offenders: AG
US - How the newest federal prison became one of the deadliest
https://www.npr.org/2022/05/31/1100954134/federal-prison-deaths-usp-thomson-illinois-prison
US - Enrollment in Prisons Continued to Climb, Despite the Pandemic
Europe
Malta - Slashing court delays ‘a priority’ – Justice Minister
https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/slashing-court-delays-a-priority-justice-minister.958777
Oceania
Australia - Submissions to Women's Safety and Justice Taskforce reveal systemic and community failure
News 31 May
Americas
Canada - Overrepresentation of Indigenous Women in Jails Hits Record Levels in BC
https://thetyee.ca/News/2022/05/31/Overrepresentation-Indigenous-Women-In-Jail/
Traumatised families demand reforms after Ecuador prison riots
The El Salvador diaries: The psychology of mass incarceration
US - First Step Act Inaction Keeps Federal Inmates In Prison
Asia
India - Govt relaxes rules for early release of convicts from jail
Nepal - Custodial deaths continue with little being done towards investigation
S. Korean rights watchdog urges resolution of prison overcrowding
Europe
England and Wales - New jails may not open due to lack of staff, prisons chief admits
https://insidetime.org/new-jails-may-not-open-due-to-lack-of-staff-prisons-chief-admits/
England and Wales - Forest Bank Prison is damned by inspectors despite beefing up security and major refurbishment
England and Wales - Frustration as prisoners’ time out of cell at HMP Belmarsh cut due to staff shortages
Oceania
New Zealand - Prison riots: Corrections to centrally record squad deployments after Newstalk ZB investigation
News 28 – 30 May
Africa
People for Peace: Breaking prison barriers in Central African Republic
Americas
Canada supreme court rules life without chance of parole is ‘cruel’ and illegal
Canada - Fed up with lockdowns, some Springhill prison inmates actively trying to get COVID-19
US - Aging in Prison: How Older Generations Fight for Dignity and Release
https://rafu.com/2022/05/aging-in-prison-how-older-generations-fight-for-dignity-and-release/
US - Crime is low, but Connecticut’s prison population is on the rise again. Here’s why.
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/Crime-is-low-but-Connecticut-s-prison-17204080.php
Europe
England and Wales - Number of violent attacks at Gartree Prison fell dramatically during the Covid lockdowns
Scotland - 'Ground-breaking' American trauma project being delivered at Barlinnie
Oceania
Australia - Prison healthcare contractor denies cover-up after Indigenous woman’s death
News 27 May
Africa
Non-custodial sentencing key to reducing congestion in Ghana’s prisons – Prison Service
Americas
US - The 1990s Law That Keeps People in Prison on Technicalities
US - Biden Moves to Improve Public Health Conditions in Federal Prisons and Jails
US - Court denies Oregon’s request to scrap lawsuit over prison COVID cases
US (Delaware) - State prison system limits vistitors after Covid cases increase in region
Asia
Cambodia - Lawyer-inmate rooms at prisons in heavy use
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/lawyer-inmate-rooms-prisons-heavy-use
India - State prisons: ‘Mulaqats’ resumed, but poor infra keeps families of prisoners away
Myanmar - Family members of inmates call for allowing prison visits
https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/family-members-inmates-call-allowing-prison-visits
Europe
Malta - Inmates will meet their children outside prison in new Marsa family room
News 26 May
Americas
Canada - Addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system in British Columbia
US - Three years after ICIJ’s ‘Solitary Voices,’ isolation still commonplace in US prisons and detention centers
US - Cost of Calls Weighs on Prisoners’ Families as CFPB Cracks Down
US - ‘Always a possibility of change’: incarcerated teens seek justice as adults
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/may/26/since-i-been-down-documentary-prison-justice-redemption
Asia
Rights Of Indian Prisoners To Equitable Wages And Application Of Labor Laws In Prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Justice minister denies ‘legal aid advice deserts’ in face of evidence of widespread failures
Oceania
New Zealand - Deputy director among nine Rimutaka Prison staff suspended amid corruption probe
News 25 May
Africa
Egypt issued highest number of death sentences worldwide in 2021
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/egypt-highest-number-death-sentences-world-2021
Ghana Prisons Service calls for more vocational establishments in prisons
South Africa: Why Independent Healthcare Inside Prisons Is Vital
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205250168.html
Americas
‘Like living in a concentration camp’: Haitian prisons run out of food and water
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/haiti/article261758132.html
Asia
Malaysia - Set up independent panel to monitor prison conditions, govt told
Malaysia - Prison reform: Suaram identifies issues, solutions in latest report
https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/622407
Europe
England and Wales - Winchester prison is 'one of the most violent prisons in the country'
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/20163716.winchester-continued-one-violent-prisons-country---report/
News 24 May
Americas
US - Supreme Court makes it tougher for inmates to win release from prison due to bad lawyering claims
US - Compassionate release for aging prisoners isn't enough
https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2022/05/24/compassionate-release-armand-coleman-sarah-laughlin
US - Mass. has lowest incarceration rate in 35 years; experts say there is room to improve
https://www.gazettenet.com/Mass-prison-population-46486834
Asia
India - Mental health report required before sentencing anyone to death, says Supreme Court
S. Korea installs sensors to prevent suicides in new military prison
http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20220524000243
Thailand - 2% of inmates are mentally ill
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2314606/2-of-inmates-are-mentally-ill
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners screened for Hepatitis C in Lewes Prison as part of efforts to eliminate virus
Turkey extends COVID-19 leaves for convicts till July 2023
https://www.dailysabah.com/turkey/turkey-extends-covid-19-leaves-for-convicts-till-july-2023/news
News 20 – 23 May
Americas
US - Bill pushes feds to notify families of sick, dying inmates
US - Two Years of COVID-19 Have Fueled a Crisis of Isolation in Prisons
https://www.vera.org/news/two-years-of-covid-19-have-fueled-a-crisis-of-isolation-in-prisons
Asia
Thailand - New Phuket prison already 85% full
https://www.thephuketnews.com/new-phuket-prison-already-85-full-84300.php
Europe
England and Wales - Children carrying weapons at most violent prison in England, inspectors warn
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/children-england-wales-staffordshire-stokeontrent-b1001241.html
England and Wales - New centre to be piloted as alternative to prison for women convicted of low-level crimes
England and Wales - Open up regimes more quickly, urges HMIP
https://insidetime.org/open-up-regimes-more-quickly-urges-hmip/
Human rights organizations demand to know if Turkish authorities have taken precautions against COVID-19 as prisons are set to return to full capacity
Oceania
Australia - WA prison staffing systems 'shambolic' and 'chaotic', auditor-general report says
News 19 May
Africa
Gambia: TRRC Recommends State Develop Alternative Systems of Imprisonment
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205180568.html
Americas
US - COVID-19 Restrictions May Be Easing, but in Prison We’re Still Here Alone
https://www.vera.org/news/covid-19-restrictions-may-be-easing-but-in-prison-were-still-here-alone
US - Counties Pledge to Break the Cycle Between Jail and Homelessness
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-05-18/the-costs-of-criminalizing-homelessness
US - Vaccine mandate struck down in court as cases climb in California prisons
https://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/california/article261544837.html
Asia
Severe Overcrowding as Israel's Prison Population Hits 15,000
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Humber prison to step up procedures after inmate dies following fall in protest over missing medication
England and Wales - Defendants incorrectly remanded in custody as a result of a widespread misuse of Bail Act
England and Wales - Crown courts ‘struggling’ to find enough judges and lawyers to deal with backlog
Assaults on staff by inmates in Irish prisons rose by 30% in 2021
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/assaults-staff-inmates-irish-prisons-26999715
News 18 May
Africa
Gambia - TRRC hints need for prison facilities with democratic standards
Liberia: LNBA Wants Gov’t Construct More Prison Facilities
https://www.liberianobserver.com/liberia-lnba-wants-govt-construct-more-prison-facilities
Americas
Mexico - Chief justice’s visit with inmates highlights the vices of preventative prison
US (Pennsylvania) - Despite high vaccination rates among Pa. prisoners, some COVID restrictions remain in place
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2022/05/pa-covid-prison-mitigation-update/
Europe
The impact of COVID-19 vaccination in prisons in England and Wales: a metapopulation model
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-13219-4
England and Wales - 'Chaotic' adult prison education system crying out for overhaul
Ireland - Pop-up prison restaurant aiming to train inmates as chefs and waitstaff in bid to solve hospitality staff crisis
Phone seizures in Irish prisons double in five years
https://www.newstalk.com/news/phone-seizures-in-irish-prisons-double-in-five-years-1343468
News 17 May
Africa
Kenya: Utilize New Dispute Resolution Methods to Decongest Courts, Expedite Justice - Koome
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205170326.html
Americas
Canada - Documents show a pattern of human rights abuses against gender diverse prisoners
Cuba's new penal code keeps death penalty as an option
https://en.mercopress.com/2022/05/17/cuba-s-new-penal-code-keeps-death-penalty-as-an-option
Will Soaring Arrests in El Salvador Overwhelm its Prisons?
https://insightcrime.org/news/elsalvador-arrests-overwhelm-prisons/
US - How the pandemic affected incarcerated people and their loved ones
https://prismreports.org/2022/05/16/pandemic-incarcerated-people-families/
Asia
850 foreigners doing time in Nepali prisons
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/850-foreigners-doing-time-in-nepali-prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Women are more likely to become homeless after being released from prison than men, analysis shows
https://inews.co.uk/news/women-more-likely-become-homeless-after-prison-release-men-1630738
England and Wales - UK criminal justice creaking under ‘unacceptable’ levels of delay
https://www.ft.com/content/5147c8a4-972a-4b45-8f81-3409425f0d16
Ireland - Judge criticises prison service over hearing delays
News 14 – 16 May
Africa
Ghana - Criminalization of drumming, begging not justified – Head of GIMPA Law Department
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons boss weighs conjugal visits for ‘good’ inmates
Some U.S. inmates released under COVID protocols challenge orders to return to prison
Asia
Philippines - 1 dead, 9 injured in QC jail riot
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2022/5/13/Quezon-City-jail-riot-May-13.html
Thailand - Prisons must not force released inmates to quarantine: minister
https://www.nationmultimedia.com/in-focus/40015562
Thailand’s Corrections Dept. to resume relatives visit next week
Europe
Cyprus - Delays to implementing juvenile justice system reform
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/05/16/delays-to-implementing-juvenile-justice-system-reform/
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, April 2022
Oceania
Australia - NSW government refuses to close legal loophole allowing prison staff to strip-search children
News 13 May
Africa
Ghana - Kumasi Central Prison: 63 per cent of inmates are petty offenders
South Africa - Wellness drive focuses on improving working conditions of prison staff
Tanzania plans to introduce mobile courts to decongest cases awaiting trial
Americas
First Juvenile Drug Treatment Courts launched in Guyana
Jamaica - Prisons to ditch ‘archaic’ paper-based system
https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/prisons-to-ditch-archaic-paper-based-system/
US - Female incarceration rates decrease with gender equality in education
Asia
Saudi's General Directorate of Prisons launches a remote visit service for first-degree relatives
Oceania
New Zealand - Corrections staff exodus blamed on wages, conditions, return to pre-pandemic careers
News 12 May
Africa
Ghana - ‘You need to perform magic for inmates to eat’ – Chief Superintendent of Prisons
Liberia: PFI Renovates Prison Facilities, Appeals for More Help
https://allafrica.com/stories/202205110682.html
Americas
Barbados - COVID-19 cases at Dodds are up
https://barbadostoday.bb/2022/05/11/covid-19-cases-at-dodds-are-up/
Ecuador: New Disorders in Prison Where 44 Prisoners Were Killed
Sint Maarten - Prison director provides IPKO with prison updates
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/prison-director-provides-ipko-with-prison-updates
U.S. inmates condemned to die are spending more time on death row
https://www.npr.org/2022/05/12/1097184110/death-row-inmates-execution-time?t=1652350493938
Europe
England and Wales - Rape victims give up fight for justice as court delays worsen
News 11 May
More than 400,000 new jail places created last year as global prison population hits all time high
Americas
Canadian prison system failing Indigenous peoples
Ecuador: In light of new prison massacre, authorities must address structural causes
US - Overnight Child Visitation Program returns to Tennessee women's prisons after COVID suspension
Asia
Israel - Prison health system severely understaffed, lacking in multiple areas - comptroller report
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-706297
Europe
England and Wales - Most women freed from Bronzefield Prison lack safe accommodation – report
England and Wales - Black women facing more racism in prison, says report
England and Wales - Devolve justice to cut prison population says Welsh Counsel General
Oceania
Australia - New computer links to keep prisoners in isolation connected and COVID-safe
News 10 May
Governments are routinely ‘over-policing, over-prosecuting and over-punishing’, says justice watchdog
Covid-19: Urgent call to lift restrictions banning visitors in places of detention
Africa
ULS partners with UN to decongest Uganda prisons
Americas
Ecuador prison riot leaves 43 dead in latest bloody episode
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/may/09/ecuador-prison-riot-leaves-scores-dead
The clothing brand offering Peru’s prisoners an escape
https://www.laprensalatina.com/the-clothing-brand-offering-perus-prisoners-an-escape/
US (Kentucky) - Ky. jails and prisons are over capacity. New analysis suggests it’s going to get worse.
Asia
Malaysia - Provide updates on inquests into custodial deaths, coroners urged
Thailand - Prison visits to resume from May 16
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2307714/prison-visits-to-resume-from-may-16
Europe
WHO report highlights a new approach to reducing NCD risks in prisons
England and Wales - Hundreds of mentally ill prisoners denied urgent treatment in England
England and Wales - ‘My world fell apart’: life in prison with serious mental illness
Netherlands - Courts should take charge in commuting life sentences, not Cabinet ministers: Council
https://nltimes.nl/2022/05/09/courts-take-charge-commuting-life-sentences-cabinet-ministers-council
Oceania
Australia - Prison Pandemic Preparations Praised
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/prison-pandemic-preparations-praised
News 7 – 9 May
Americas
America’s dirty secret is thousands going to jail every day without talking to a lawyer, attorney says
US - Fourth inmate dies at Rikers Island as deadline to fix crisis-plagued NYC prison looms
US - In Texas prisons, men have access to significantly more higher education programs than women
https://19thnews.org/2022/05/texas-prison-higher-education-system-inequity/
Asia
India - Ensure jails have proper medical facilities: HC tells DG Prisons
India - Prisoners can no longer seek emergency Covid-19 parole: Bombay HC
Thousands face jail as Jordan heads to lift moratorium on debt imprisonment
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/thousands-jordanians-could-face-jail-debt-next-month
Pakistan - Punjab’s soaring prison population a nightmare
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2355462/punjabs-soaring-prison-population-a-nightmare
Europe
England and Wales - Prison firm made £11m in year Ofsted raised alarm about safety at youth jail
England and Wales - Three-quarters of children on remand last year did not go on to receive a custodial sentence
Oceania
Australia - Victoria’s prison healthcare system should match community healthcare
Australia - Covid runs amok at AMC
https://citynews.com.au/2022/covid-runs-amok-at-amc/
New Zealand - One in five prisoners not vaccinated against Covid-19
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/466709/one-in-five-prisoners-not-vaccinated-against-covid-19
News 6 May
Americas
Canada - How prisons are using COVID-19 containment measures as a guise for torture
Canada - Ottawa criticized for ‘rehashed responses’ on overrepresentation of Indigenous women in federal prisons
US - Focused on Rehabilitation: Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Unveils ‘Little Scandinavia’ at SCI Chester
Asia
India - Maharashtra: Over 4,000 prisoners released due to pandemic ordered to return
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Horrendous, inhumane and degrading treatment’ – inquest hears about prisoner death
Ireland - Covid measures to be eased in prisons
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/covid-measures-to-be-eased-in-prisons
Turkey - 80K inmates who benefited from temporary release due to pandemic to return to prison
News 5 May
Asia
Covid-19: Hong Kong eases curbs on prison visits as infections fall
Philippines - Visitors of PDLs now accepted in BuCor’s 7 prison facilities
https://mb.com.ph/2022/05/05/visitors-of-pdls-now-accepted-in-bucors-7-prison-facilities/
Thailand - Dept to ensure better prison food after complaints
Europe
England and Wales - 'Last of its kind' Colchester prison raises concerns as criminals including sex offenders freed without supervision
https://www.essexlive.news/news/essex-news/last-kind-colchester-prison-raises-7038936
HMP Barlinnie gets first prison body scanner in Scotland in efforts to curb smuggling
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/barlinnie-prison-body-scanner-drugs-b2072098.html
Oceania
Australia - Alice Springs prison officers strike, claim facility chronically understaffed
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-05-05/alice-springs-prison-officers-strike/101040672
News 4 May
Africa
Libya - 170 prisoners escape from Mellitah prison west of Tripoli
https://libyaupdate.com/170-prisoners-escape-from-mellitah-prison-west-of-tripoli/
Asia
India - HC seeks Maha govt's reply on withdrawal of voice, video call facilities for inmates in prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Month on month increase in violence at HMP Exeter despite ‘urgent notification’ issued four years ago
Malta - Court finds prison authorities guilty of degrading and inhuman treatment
Oceania
New Zealand - Prison staff warned to hide their uniforms outside work due to safety concerns
News 30 April – 3 May
Americas
Pages for pardons? In Bolivia, inmates can cut jail time by reading
Canada - Inmate's COVID-19 experience in Her Majesty's Penitentiary doesn't warrant a lighter sentence, Newfoundland judge finds
Asia
India has court backlog of 40 million cases, chief justice says
India - SC directs prisoners released on parole in Kerala due to Covid-19 to surrender within 2 weeks
Pakistan - Sindh govt grants six-month remission to prisoners on Eid
https://www.dawn.com/news/1687601/sindh-govt-grants-six-month-remission-to-prisoners-on-eid
Europe
Prison overcrowding in Belgium delays application of ‘shorter sentences’
England and Wales - Prisoner assaults soared after Covid restrictions eased at Full Sutton
England and Wales - Magistrates can now jail people for up to a year
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/magistrates-jail-people-year-england-wales-6h80jkr5b
Ireland - Overcrowding in prisons putting inmates and staff at risk, says Dublin TD
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/overcrowding-prisons-putting-inmates-staff-23845942
Oceania
Australia - Darwin prison officers allege 'under-staffing and overcrowding' during wage freeze protest on May Day
New Zealand - Māori even more overrepresented in prisons, despite $98m strategy
News 29 April
Africa
Kenya: 5,000 Petty Offenders to Be Freed From Prison in Decongestion Program
https://allafrica.com/stories/202204280517.html
Americas
Canada - Intelligence agency needs to keep a closer watch on extremism in prisons, report says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/csis-rcmp-prisons-extremism-1.6431967
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak declared at Kitchener women's prison, 3 cases detected
US -Connecticut Senate passes bill meant to improve health care for prison inmates
https://news.yahoo.com/connecticut-senate-passes-bill-meant-003800081.html
Asia
Indonesia - Government to expedite COVID-19 vaccination at South Sumatra's prisons
Jordan to criminalise begging with up to one year in jail
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/jordan-criminalise-begging-one-year-jail
Europe
England and Wales - City firms pledge to employ ex-offenders as prisons minister calls on bosses to ‘break offending cycle’
Isle of Man Prison policies changed after inmate death, inquest hears
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-61264399
Oceania
Australia (NT) - Prison officers to take strike action across the Territory
https://ntindependent.com.au/news-brief-prison-officers-to-take-strike-action-across-the-territory/
News 28 April
Africa
Kenya - 1000 probation officers to be hired in prison decongestion plan
Americas
US - With COVID-19 Cases On Rise, Bureau Of Prisons Slowly Still Transferring Inmates Under CARES Act
US - South Dakota prison staffing shortages leave inmates with no showers
https://www.foxnews.com/us/south-dakota-prison-staffing-shortages-leave-inmates-no-showers
Asia
UAE - Dubai Police prepare inmates for life after prison with university courses
Europe
Prison reform: Belgium increases psychiatric support for inmates
https://www.brusselstimes.com/220053/prison-reform-belgium-increases-psychiatric-support-for-inmates
Denmark agrees €15 million deal to send 300 foreign prisoners to Kosovo
Number of children in custody in England and Wales set to double by 2024
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/number-children-custody-set-double-23807107
England and Wales - PAC: ‘Spend to save’ on women in the criminal justice system
England and Wales - Kirkham Prison management slammed for failing to crack down on drugs
Germany: Top court hears case on prisoners' wages
https://www.dw.com/en/germany-top-court-hears-case-on-prisoners-wages/a-61614253
Ireland - Prison chief says gangs not in control of life in jails
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2022/0428/1294783-prisons/
Ireland - Jail ‘rarely’ cost-effective for short-sentence prisoners
Ireland - Prison officers launch stinging attack over treatment of staff during Covid-19 pandemic
Report demands urgent action on mental health support in Scottish prisons
News 27 April
Africa
Ghana's 'life-threatening' prisons 'overflow' with faeces as 100 share one toilet – US Report
Tanzania - Union Day: Samia frees 3,826 inmates
https://www.ippmedia.com/en/news/union-day-samia-frees-3826-inmates
Americas
US - How I Helped Fight Vaccine Misinformation While In Prison
https://theappeal.org/fighting-covid-19-misiniforation-sing-sing-prison/
Asia
Jordan - Lawmakers pass amendments to Penal Code bill
https://en.ammonnews.net/article/57934
Singapore - First batch of prison inmates graduates with precision engineering skills to boost job prospects
Europe
England and Wales - Prison service failing to tackle radicalisation in jails, report warns
England and Wales - Mentally unwell women are being sent to prison instead of hospital due to lack of NHS beds, MPs warn
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/prison-women-mental-health-mp-b2065054.html
England and Wales - 'No light at end of tunnel': Hundreds stuck behind bars under law abolished in 2012
England and Wales - Inmates at Hull prison still being locked up for up to 23 hours a day
England and Wales - ‘Crumbling’ criminal justice system hampered by £1bn repair bill and lack of judges - MPs
Ireland - Prison Officers warn overcrowding, violence becoming major problem
https://www.rte.ie/news/2022/0427/1294516-prison-officers-conference/
Ireland - Foreign nationals get one-third higher prison terms on average than Irish-born criminals
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-40859495.html
Italy - 107 indictments asked for prison violence
Oceania
Australia - Sinks, metal sheeting pulled from prison walls during violent riot over forced lockdown
News 26 April
Africa
Eid Al-Fitr 2022: Prison Inmates in Morocco Allowed To Receive Food Baskets
Namibia: UN to Help Prisons Grow Food
https://allafrica.com/stories/202204260433.html
Americas
US - California does not have to require prison workers to get COVID vaccines, court rules
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/California-does-not-have-to-require-prison-17126330.php
US - 'Our families count too': Months after suspension, visitation to resume at Kentucky prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Rate of self-harm amongst women prisoners eight times that of men
https://www.thejusticegap.com/rate-of-self-harm-amongst-women-prisoners-eight-times-that-of-men/
England and Wales - Jail praised for unlocking prisoners for seven hours a day
https://insidetime.org/jail-praised-for-unlocking-prisoners-for-seven-hours-a-day/
Scots victims of crime facing 'wait for justice'
https://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/20092064.scots-victims-crime-facing-wait-justice/
Oceania
Australia - Inquest into Aboriginal woman’s death in custody to examine healthcare in Victoria’s prisons
News 23-25 April
Americas
St Lucia - Bordelais Correctional Facility Recommences In-Person Visits
https://thevoiceslu.com/2022/04/bordelais-correctional-facility-recommences-in-person-visits/
US - How a Race-Based Medical Formula Is Keeping Some Black Men in Prison
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/22/nyregion/prison-kidney-federal-courts-race.html
US (Pennsylvania) - 29 people died in Philly jails in the pandemic. City officials say they did a ‘good job’
US - Life after life in California's prisons
https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-04-24/facing-life-sentences-release-california-prisons
Asia
Indonesia - Inmates' transfer temporarily solves prison overcrowding issue
https://en.antaranews.com/news/226721/inmates-transfer-temporarily-solves-prison-overcrowding-issue
Pakistan - Committee to formulate strategy for betterment of prison system
https://pakobserver.net/committee-to-formulate-strategy-for-betterment-of-prison-system/
Europe
Netherlands - Parliament divided over maximum 25 years prison sentence for manslaughter
https://nltimes.nl/2022/04/24/parliament-divided-maximum-25-years-prison-sentence-manslaughter
News 22 April
UN: Make Reporting on Covid-19 in Prisons Mandatory
https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/04/22/un-make-reporting-covid-19-prisons-mandatory
Africa
Morocco Prisons To Prioritize Humane Detention, Social Reintegration
Coverup in Nigerian Prison As TB Hits, Kills Several Inmates
https://allafrica.com/stories/202204220025.html
Americas
El Salvador to Speed Up Construction of Prisons
Asia
Cambodia - Prison population drops, overcrowding eases
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501061731/prison-population-drops-overcrowding-eases/
Oceania
New Zealand - Remand unit closed after prison inspection
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/southland/remand-unit-closed-after-prison-inspection
News 21 April
Africa
South Africa - DCS To Tighten Up Processes To Prevent Corruption After Two Prison Escapes
Togo resumes prison visits after a two-year ban
https://www.africanews.com/2022/04/20/togo-resumes-prison-visits-after-a-two-year-ban/
Americas
Canada - A B.C. prison that made it 2 years without a COVID-19 outbreak now has 59 cases
Europe
Prison overcrowding: Anti-torture committee calls for limits on prison inmate numbers and promoting non-custodial measures
England and Wales - Number of prisoners stuck in solitary confinement a real worry, prisons watchdog warns
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/prison-solitary-confinement-education-b2057841.html
Ireland - 30% Increase In Assaults On Prison Officers In 2021
https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/30-increase-in-assaults-on-prison-officers-in-2021/
News 14 – 20 April
Africa
Covid-19 Togo: les visites aux détenus désormais autorisées
https://www.ivoiresoir.net/covid-19-togo-les-visites-aux-detenus-desormais-autorisees/
A legal-realist assessment of the Zimbabwean correctional system response to COVID-19 during state disaster measures
Americas
US - Why Prison Reintegration Programs Are Needed and Who’s Doing It Right
US - Federal Bureau Of Prisons’ Medical Care Falls Short Of Its Own Policy
US - ‘It’s An Emergency’: Tens Of Thousands Of Incarcerated People Are Sexually Assaulted Each Year
https://theappeal.org/cynthia-alvarado-sexual-assault-in-prisons/
US (Nevada) - Low-level parole violations clog prisons, derail parolee progress. Can reforms help?
US - Vermont's Prisons Open to Visitors Again, Ending a Two-Year Restriction
Asia
India - Consider conditional release of single woman prisoners, Orissa HC
Rights groups pull no punches over Indonesian prisons
https://www.ucanews.com/news/rights-groups-pull-no-punches-over-indonesian-prisons/96970
Myanmar junta frees 1,600 from jail but not political prisoners
Taiwan - Lawmakers pass amendment reducing jail time for growing pot for self-use
https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2022/04/20/2003776918
Thailand - New rule on royal pardon put in place
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2294646/new-rule-on-royal-pardon-put-in-place
Europe
Hundred new prison welfare projects launched in Belgium will ‘cost society nothing’
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, March 2022
England and Wales - HMP Bullingdon: Concern over drugs in jail after prisoner's death
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-61105053
Around 5% of all Irish prison staff to get randomly drug tested under new scheme
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/around-5-irish-prison-staff-26743718
Romanian prisons continue to face extensive challenges
https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/romanian-prisons-continue-to-face-extensive-challenges
Scotland - SNP accused of ‘hopelessly mismanaging’ prisons as over 1,500 cons doubling up in cells
Oceania
Australia - WA prison staff shortage will lead to disaster, Prison Officers' Union warns
Australia - WA prison inspector uncovers cruel conditions inside Banksia Hill Detention Centre
Australia (Tasmania) - COVID prisons outbreak puts staff and inmates at risk
https://taslabor.com/covid-prisons-outbreak-puts-staff-and-inmates-at-risk/
News 13 April
Africa
Ghana - Hold national dialogue on prison reform - CCF to Government
Americas
US - There are thousands fewer people in Wisconsin’s prisons than before the pandemic. What happened?
Asia
Iran: seriously ill prisoners denied medical care and left to die - new report
Europe
Authorities launch AI project to modernise Finnish prison labour
https://yle.fi/news/3-12402053
Oceania
New Zealand - Mental health focus for prison reform
https://waateanews.com/2022/04/13/mental-health-focus-for-prison-reform/
News 12 April
Africa
Nigeria - Riot in Rivers prison leaves one dead, many others with bullet wounds
Zimbabwe - ZPCS brings back family week
https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zpcs-brings-back-family-week/
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prison Service resumes in-person visits
https://tt.loopnews.com/content/prison-service-resumes-person-visits
Europe
England and Wales - Inspectorate of Prisons criticises progress at YOI Deerbolt
England and Wales - Isle of Wight prison failings revealed after murderer's suicide
https://www.countypress.co.uk/news/20060654.isle-wight-prison-failings-revealed-murderers-suicide/
England and Wales - HMP Ford near Arundel criticised for living conditions
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/20060108.hmp-ford-near-arundel-criticised-living-conditions/
Serious incidents of self-harm more than double at Jersey's La Moye Prison
Oceania
Australia - Risdon Prison minimum-security facility locked down after surge in COVID-19 cases
Australia - Call to rehabilitate SA prison system
https://indaily.com.au/news/2022/04/12/call-to-rehabilitate-sa-prison-system/
News 9 – 11 April
Africa
HRW raises alarm after outbreak of cholera in Cameroon prison
https://www.rfi.fr/en/africa/20220409-hrw-raises-alarm-after-outbreak-of-cholera-in-cameroon-prison
Egypt: Prisons employ 'systemic sexual violence' against detainees
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/egypt-sexual-violence-detainees-human-rights-report
South Africa - Prison visits allowed again after long lockdown ban
Americas
US - Report finds systemic issues increase COVID-19 cases in incarcerated communities
Asia
India - Maharashtra among six states where women in jails exceed capacity
Jordan plans electronic tags for detainees to avoid prison overcrowding
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2059921/middle-east
Malaysia - Prisons chief: Only 14.97% of ex-convicts reoffend
Philippines - BuCor: 88% of 48,991 inmates fully vaccinated; 19% with booster jabs
Thailand - 120,000 busted for drugs in past 6 months
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2292758/120-000-busted-for-drugs-in-past-6-months
Thailand - Jail-term reduction rules set
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2292498/jail-term-reduction-rules-set
Europe
England and Wales - Governor says more time in cell has made prison safer
https://insidetime.org/governor-says-more-time-in-cell-has-made-prison-safer/
Ireland - Long-awaited reports into Dóchas women's prison kept under wraps by Department
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40848545.html
Jersey - Prison governor: Staff shortages ‘not as dire as being made out’
Jail attacks on Northern Ireland prison officers double in year
High levels of jail time in Portugal
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2022-04-08/high-levels-of-jail-time-in-portugal/66300
Shock as 25 inmates at Scots prisons die by suicide as victim's family lawyer demands bosses face criminal sanctions
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/shock-25-inmates-scots-prisons-26677343
Prisons population at highest in Turkey’s history
https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-prisons/prisons-population-highest-turkeys-history
Oceania
HCV reinfection common in Australian prisons, study finds
News 8 April
Americas
US (Vermont) - In-person visits at all Vt. prisons expected to resume soon
https://www.wcax.com/2022/04/07/in-person-visits-all-vt-prisons-expected-resume-soon/
Europe
England and Wales - Female black and Asian prisoners detail racism endured in landmark report
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/black-asian-women-prison-racism-b2053323.html
Turkey Builds More Prisons to Hold Exploding Jail Population
https://balkaninsight.com/2022/04/08/turkey-builds-more-prisons-to-hold-exploding-jail-population/
Implementation of novel and conventional outbreak control measures in managing COVID-19 outbreaks in a large UK prison
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-12991-7
Oceania
New Zealand - Inspectorate launches review into prisoner suicides, serious self-harm incidents after 'sharp increase'
News 7 April
Africa
South Africa - Prison visits reinstated as National State of Disaster ends
Zimbabwe - Prison officers get training on human rights
https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/prison-officers-get-training-on-human-rights/
Americas
Canadian inmates still face isolation amounting to torture, experts say
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/federal-inmates-solitary-confinement-enquete-1.6410882
Ecuador's deadly prison riots show no signs of slowing
Europe
Ireland - Covid outbreak in two prisons sees visits suspended and rollout of mass testing
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40846061.html
Turkey’s Justice Ministry to ask prison administrations about widespread torture claims
News 6 April
Americas
Ecuador prison death toll rises to 20, authorities regain control
https://www.azernews.az/region/191826.html
El Salvador to build prison for 20,000 gang members, says President Bukele
https://www.nationthailand.com/international/40014228
US Virgin Islands - BOC not complying with prison monitoring requirements
Asia
Cambodia - GDP: Nearly 100% of inmates vaccinated for Covid
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-nearly-100-inmates-vaccinated-covid
Europe
Cyprus’ prison population down almost 30% but still overcrowded
https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/04/06/cyprus-prison-population-down-almost-30-but-still-overcrowded/
Ireland – Cork Prison adopts new restrictions after 90 Covid cases
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40845185.html
Irish Prison Service rejects claims Covid prisoners are 'living in a zoo'
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/irish-prison-service-rejects-claims-23604191
Luxembourg - Prison population declines by one-third over ten years
https://delano.lu/article/prison-population-declines-by-
Northern Ireland leads Europe in level of life sentences handed out to prisoners, says report
Scotland’s prison population rate remains above European average
Oceania
Australia - Life after prison: Victoria expands jobs program for ex-offenders in bid to reduce recidivism
News 5 April
Africa
Tunisia PM pledges to improve detention conditions, reduce overcrowding in prisons
Americas
US - Judge grants class-action status to prisoners sickened by COVID in Oregon
Asia
One Killed, Five Injured as Myanmar Junta Quells Prison Protest
Europe
Council of Europe’s annual penal statistics: Covid-19 pandemic helped reduce Europe’s prison population
Belgian prisons in top 5 most densely populated in Europe
https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/215087/belgian-prisons-among-most-densely-populated-in-europe
England and Wales - Prisoners have no lessons for two years due to Covid, report says
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/education/prisoners-prisons-covid-ofsted-b992375.html
Ireland - Outbreak of Covid-19 confirmed at Cork Prison
https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40843994.html
Covid Scotland: Longer time limits for court cases should not be the new normal, say MSPs
Torture, mistreatment not allowed in Turkish prisons, justice minister claims
https://stockholmcf.org/torture-mistreatment-not-allowed-in-turkish-prisons-justice-minister-claims/
News 2-4 April
Africa
Algeria: president pardons 1,000+ prisoners
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20220404-algeria-president-pardons-1000-prisoners/
Five prisoners killed as Cameroon’s cholera outbreak spreads to prison
https://newsghana.com.gh/five-prisoners-killed-as-cameroons-cholera-outbreak-spreads-to-prison/
South Africa - Inspectorate launches a probe into G4S prison conduct
https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/inspectorate-launches-a-probe-into-g4s-prison-conduct-20220402
Americas
New riot at Ecuadorian prison leaves at least another 12 inmates dead
Asia
Open Prisons Work - Lessons From India
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashoka/2022/04/04/open-prisons-worklessons-from-india/?sh=76a37dd63aa6
Life in Japan: The softer corners and harder edges of the Japanese justice system
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20220402/p2a/00m/0op/017000c
Europe
England and Wales - Justice delayed: The human cost of the courts backlog
https://news.sky.com/story/justice-delayed-the-human-cost-of-the-courts-backlog-12579779
England and Wales - End of the line for random drug tests in prisons
https://insidetime.org/end-of-the-line-for-random-drug-tests-in-prisons/
‘Not forgotten’: Prisoners prep to vote in French election
Scotland's prisons must look at wider reform after under-18s rule change
Oceania
Australia - Victorian mentoring program keeping women out of prison at risk of closing due to lack of funds
News 1 April
Americas
US - Bureau Of Prisons Is Overworking Its Most Critical Staff Positions During First Step Act Implementation
U.S. Correctional Population Drops 22% Over Decade
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/04/01/u-s-correctional-population-drops-22-over-decade/
US - Local jails are helping drive America’s mass incarceration problem
https://www.vox.com/23003673/jail-prison-mass-incarceration-problem
US - New York's new solitary confinement guidelines take effect Friday
Asia
New norms in Brunei judiciary due to pandemic: Chief Justice
Europe
England and Wales - Crime victims left in limbo as ‘unacceptable’ court backlogs increase wait for justice
France - Prisons: the number of detainees rises above 70,000 for the first time since the pandemic
Latvia - Restrictions on prison inmates' participation in local elections ruled unconstitutional
News 31 March
Fighting COVID-19 in prisons: WHO report presents best practices from countries
Africa
Eight Egyptian rights organisations call for real reform to prisons
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/eight-egyptian-rights-orgs-urge-real-reform-prisons
Asia
India - From now, 'FASTER' release of prisoners granted bail; CJI launches software for e-transfer of orders to jail
India - Personal loans up to Rs 50,000 at 7% interest for prisoners in Maharashtra jails
Japan's revised Juvenile Law set to take effect as age of adulthood lowered to 18
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2022/03/31/national/crime-legal/juvenile-law-changes/
Europe
Cyprus - Cabinet gives green light for prison facility for juveniles to be set up
England and Wales - As life returns to normal, how come prisons are still in lockdown?
Scotland - Under-18s will no longer be sent to young offender institutions
https://news.stv.tv/west-central/under-18s-will-no-longer-be-sent-to-young-offender-institutions
Scotland - £3.2m to strengthen remand alternatives
https://www.gov.scot/news/gbp-3-2m-to-strengthen-remand-alternatives/
News 30 March
Africa
Egypt - All inmates nationwide to be granted 2 exceptional visits on occasion of Holy month of Ramadan
Americas
Canada - 'It's inhumane': Many federal inmates haven't seen their loved ones in over 2 years
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/federal-inmates-denied-visits-covid-1.6401334
Guyana: Prisoner stabbed to death over bed space
https://caribbean.loopnews.com/content/guyana-prisoner-stabbed-death-over-bed-space
US - Connecticut legislature looks to establish oversight for prison health care
Asia
Bangladesh - 72pc of death sentence recipients poor
https://www.newagebd.net/article/166706/72pc-of-death-sentence-recipients-poor
India - Rules amended to carry out prisoner-centric reforms
Europe
England and Wales - Six out out of 10 women in prison are victims of domestic abuse, says new report
Ireland - Prisoners need 'decent second chance', committee hears
https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2022/0329/1289185-committee-prison/
News 29 March
Americas
El Salvador locks down prisons after wave of 87 killings over weekend
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/mar/28/el-salvador-prisons-gang-killings
US - Preliminary report shows no spike in recidivism for prisoners released early by Oregon governor
US - 2 Mass. prisons mishandled COVID and neglected prisoners, report by disability advocates claims
Asia
Philippines - BuCor’s 7 prison facilities Covid free
https://mb.com.ph/2022/03/29/bucors-7-prison-facilities-covid-free/
Europe
Ireland - COVID concerns as prison population 'creeping upwards'
https://www.newstalk.com/news/covid-concerns-as-prison-population-creeping-upwards-1326320
Turkey - Mothers and children suffer from overcrowding, sickness and neglect in Izmir’s Şakran Prison
Mothers and babies join protest against UK imprisonment of pregnant women
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 lockdowns see WA prisoners go days without washing or exercise
News 26 – 28 March
Americas
El Salvador isolates imprisoned gang members after emergency decreed
https://www.laprensalatina.com/el-salvador-isolates-imprisoned-gang-members-after-emergency-decreed/
US (Connecticut) - CT prisoners testify on solitary confinement bill
Asia
Cambodia - GDP: Prison conditions improve in 2021
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-prison-conditions-improve-2021
Philippines - 86% of BuCor’s PDLs fully vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2022/03/28/86-of-bucors-pdls-fully-vaccinated/
Europe
England and Wales - Soaring numbers of rape and murder trials delayed as courts fail to get a grip on Covid backlog
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/18071583/rape-murder-trials-delayed-covid-backlog-courts/
Ireland - Minister for Justice to examine murder sentencing reforms
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2022/0328/1288831-justice-reforms/
Scotland - Edinburgh prisoner, 34, 'begged' for help before dying alone in cell from Covid
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-prisoner-34-begged-help-23513079
Oceania
New Zealand - Prison staff concerned after serious assaults on workers jump 50 per cent
Exclusive: 'Expensive failure' - New Zealand's cost per prisoner rises while jail population dwindles
News 25 March
Americas
US - Prisoners with links to organized crime are commonly denied compassionate release
US (North Carolina) - Report: 2020 saw a record number of deaths in NC jails
US - Wyoming prisons relax pandemic measures
Asia
Hong Kong - Relief for inmates as visits ban eased
https://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news/section/4/240175/Relief-for-inmates-as-visits-ban-eased
India - Inmates who have completed half their prison sentence likely to be released, Centre to issue advisory soon
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoner calls to Samaritans helpline increased by 60% during pandemic
England and Wales - New Grendon prison plans rejected by Buckinghamshire Council
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-60872824
Oceania
Australia - ‘Long overdue’: MPs call for review of Victoria’s bail laws that disproportionately affect women
New Zealand - Covid-19: Invercargill Prison creates isolation unit
News 24 March
Americas
US – ‘It’s A Money Grab’: Billions in Covid Relief Going To Fund Police And Prisons
https://theappeal.org/covid-funds-police-prisons-arpa/
Asia
Cambodia - ICRC urged to help mentally-ill women in jail
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501046744/icrc-urged-to-help-mentally-ill-women-in-jail/
India - UP govt lifts ban on visitors to jail after dip in Covid cases
India - Coimbatore: As Covid ebbs, Central prison starts admitting prisoners directly
Thailand - Annual prison report highlights inadequate COVID-19 response, sub-standard conditions
Europe
England and Wales - Durham Prison sees violence fall during lockdown – but overcrowding concerns remain
England and Wales - Woman prisoner with brain injury held in solitary confinement for over 1,000 days, IMB reveals
Oceania
New Zealand - New Waikeria Prison facility delayed to 2023 due to Covid-19 disruptions
News 23 March
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Immediate changes to prison infrastructure after jail break
US - COVID-Fueled Solitary Confinement Still Plagues Prisons and Jails
Asia
India - Union Cabinet approves release of prisoners in jail for minor offences
Malaysia - 86.5% of prisoners vaccinated against Covid-19, says minister
https://www.themalaysianinsight.com/s/373163
Europe
Greece - Covid outbreak reported at maximum-security wing of Domokos Prison
Covid-19 spread twice as fast in Greek prisons
Ireland - 31 cases of Covid confirmed in Portlaoise Prison in March
Oceania
Outbreak of Covid-19 in Cook Islands prison
https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/463869/outbreak-of-covid-19-in-cook-islands-prison
News 22 March
Americas
US - Cap on ‘Egregious’ Prison Phone Costs Set for Senate Panel Vote
Asia
India - Overcrowded District Jail in Shillong Forced to Keep Inmates 3 Times the Capacity
Malaysia - Community rehabilitation can save prison system RM182mil annually, says Home Minister
Europe
England and Wales - Ofsted prisons report finds literacy skills neglected
https://www.thenational.wales/news/20010175.ofsted-prisons-report-finds-literacy-skills-neglected/
England and Wales - Hundreds object to new Grendon prison plans
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-60826180
Portugal - Courts “in danger of collapse”
https://www.portugalresident.com/courts-in-danger-of-collapse/
Oceania
Australia - People In Prison Still In Covid-19 Lockdown
https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/people-in-prison-still-in-covid-19-lockdown
News 19-21 March
Africa
COVID-19 Prevention Practices Among Prisoners, in Southern Ethiopia
Americas
US - The Justice Lesson of the Pandemic
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/03/21/the-justice-lesson-of-the-pandemic/
US - Arkansas to release 387 potential parolees as prison population bulges
https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2022/mar/18/arkansas-to-release-387-potential-parolees-as/
Asia
Covid-19 and prisons: lockdown to contain outbreak difficult but needed, outgoing Hong Kong correctional services chief says, insists he did ‘fair’ job
India - 7,524 jail inmates faced mental health issues: Govt’s 2020 data
New Video Leak Keeps Spotlight On Inhumane Prison Conditions In Iran
https://www.rferl.org/a/leaked-video-evin-abuses/31760193.html
Maldives - 73 percent of inmates fully vaccinated against COVID-19
Philippines - 119,175 inmates fully vaccinated – BJMP
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/03/21/2168689/119175-inmates-fully-vaccinated-bjmp
Europe
Cyprus - Women’s wing in overcrowded Nicosia prisons in shocking state
https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/womens-wing-in-overcrowded-nicosia-prisons-in-shocking-state/
Ireland - Prisoners were locked up for 23 hours a day in pandemic
https://extra.ie/2022/03/21/news/irish-news/prisoners-locked-up-23-hours-a-day
News 18 March
Americas
Ecuador's prisons blighted by state abandonment -IACHR
US (Nebraska) - Senators Discuss Causes of Prison Overcrowding
US (New York) - An Overhaul of Prison Health Care Is Long Overdue
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/correctional-health-care/
US - Contact visitations reinstated at Louisiana's state-run prisons
Venezuela Judicial Woes Exacerbated as Prison Guards Extort Inmates
https://insightcrime.org/news/venezuelan-guards-extort-prisoners-court-hearings/
Asia
Visits set to resume in Hong Kong prisons after Correctional Services Department brings Covid-19 outbreak under control
India - After Covid relief in 2020 and 2021, 6K prisoners yet to return to Delhi jails
Macau - Correctional Services Require Negative NAT Prior To Visiting Facilities
Europe
Ireland - Prisoner takes court action over period of ‘almost solitary confinement’
News 17 March
Africa
Ghana - GHS1.80 per day feeding money for prisoners inadequate – Former director
Americas
US - More Than 800 New Jersey Prison Inmates Released Under COVID-19 Pandemic Law
Asia
India - Mumbai: State prisons to get video conferencing units to facilitate production of inmates before courts
India - Bengaluru: Prisoners visit in jails allowed from March 21
https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=937840
Prisoners in Israeli jails to start open-ended hunger strike to protest prison measures
https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/128452
South Korea - 735 prisoners to be released on parole to free up prison space, including two ex-Samsung execs
http://www.arirang.com/news/News_View.asp?nseq=295416
Europe
England and Wales - Proportion of remand prisoners who are minority ethnic rises 17% in six years
Isle of Man - Inspection at the prison will focus on mental health
https://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/inspection-at-the-prison-will-focus-on-mental-health-515688
Oceania
Australia - Justice Department responding to Hakea Prison COVID-19 outbreak
News 16 March
Americas
US - ‘Out of Sight, Out of Mind’: The Failure of Prison Oversight
https://thecrimereport.org/2022/03/16/out-of-sight-out-of-mind-the-failures-of-prison-oversight/
US - Incarcerated workers: overlooked as essential workers
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-12886-7
US (California) - Study highlights risk of low COVID vaccine uptake in prison staff
Asia
India - Jail inmates will be allowed to meet fully vaccinated relatives
Europe
England and Wales - Wetherby Young Offender Institution lost ground during Covid - report
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-60763730
Number of inmates exceeds 309,000 in Turkish prisons
https://stockholmcf.org/number-of-inmates-exceeds-309000-in-turkish-prisons/
Oceania
Australia - COVID sweeping through Hakea Prison as prisoners climb on roof
News 15 March
Americas
Canada - Courts will have to consider reasonableness of delays during COVID-19, experts say
US - COVID-19 in US prisoners, staff at triple the community rate
Asia
UN committee raises concern over Cambodia’s crowded, unsanitary prisons
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/cambodia/human-rights-committee-03142022191656.html
Red Cross say it hasn't visited Myanmar prisons since COVID
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/red-cross-visited-myanmar-prisons-covid-83437695
Europe
England and Wales - How UK prison policy locks women into homelessness
Oceania
New Zealand - Prisoner and 11 staff test positive at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison
News 12 – 14 March
Africa
Ghana - Media urged to promote benefits of community sentencing
Americas
US - A study of SARS-COV-2 outbreaks in US federal prisons: the linkage between staff, incarcerated populations, and community transmission
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-12813-w
US - Federal Prison Compassionate Releases Soared In 2020
US - The Pandemic Isn’t Over Inside Prisons—And It Might Never Be
https://theappeal.org/covid-prisons-quarantine-lockdown/
US - New Jersey Prison Population Experiences One of the Largest Drops in the U.S.
US - COVID cases continue to drop at Washington state prison
US - Missouri prison inmates will be able to have visitors without restrictions in April
Asia
India - To minimise Covid risk, Delhi jails to keep video call option for inmates
Philippines - BuCor inmates start receiving COVID-19 vaccine booster shots
https://ptvnews.ph/bucor-inmates-start-receiving-covid-19-vaccine-booster-shots/
Europe
England and Wales - HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 Statistics, February 2022
Turkey: the report on violation of right to food access in prisons
https://medyanews.net/turkey-the-report-on-violation-of-right-to-food-access-in-prisons/
Oceania
New Zealand - Claims Mt Eden inmates locked down 24-7 as Covid sweeps Auckland jail
News 11 March
Americas
Canada - Newly unveiled records chart struggles in Manitoba’s criminal justice system during pandemic
US - Prison Populations Declined Only 1.1% In 2021, With 19 States And The Federal Government Increasing Prison Incarceration
US - The Powerlessness of Parenting From Prison
https://www.themarshallproject.org/2022/03/11/the-powerlessness-of-parenting-from-prison
US - New York closes 6 state prisons as inmate numbers drop
https://www.wcax.com/2022/03/10/new-york-closes-6-state-prisons-inmate-numbers-drop/
Asia
India - Supreme Court requests committee on prison reforms to submit final report within six months
Possible revision to Japan's Penal Code to emphasize rehabilitation over retribution
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2022/03/11/national/penal-code-rehabilitation-prisoners/
Thai prisons ban alcohol-based sanitiser after abuse by prisoners leading to death, blindness
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Durham praised after significant fall in violence – but concerns remain over access to healthcare for prisoners and post-release support
France - Prison de Béziers : des détenus sains confinés à cause d'environ 40 cas positifs
Oceania
Australia - COVID in WA: Children, staff at Banksia Hill Detention Centre test positive for coronavirus
News 10 March
Americas
US - Missouri prisons to drop COVID-19 precautions for visits in April
https://www.newstribune.com/news/2022/mar/10/missouri-prisons-to-drop-covid-19-precautions-for/
Asia
‘Love is what sustains them’: Hong Kong prisoners cut off from family amid coronavirus outbreak
Why are India's jails so overcrowded?
https://www.dw.com/en/why-are-indias-jails-so-overcrowded/a-61063696
India - Lift ban on meetings in jails across Punjab: Bikram Majithia
Philippines - Covid vaccination at BuCor’s NBP set March 12
https://mb.com.ph/2022/03/10/covid-vaccination-at-bucors-nbp-set-march-12/
Europe
Isle of Man - Prison service 'could do more' to provide mental health support
Activists demonstrate against high number of female inmates in Turkish prisons
News 9 March
Americas
Prison Pandemic Papers Documenting Impact Of Covid-19 In Jails, Prisons & Penitentiaries Across Canada Launched
US - COVID-19 Inmate Deaths in Prisons
https://www.npr.org/2022/03/07/1085020336/covid-19-inmate-deaths-in-prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Winchester prison staff 'almost lose control of yard'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-60665837
Oceania
New Zealand - Corrections managing hundreds of Covid-19 cases among inmates
New Zealand - Corrections on Covid prison lockdowns - 'we have saved lives'
New Zealand - ‘Blood bath from hell’: Inmates at private prison tell of suicides, allege negligence in Covid outbreak
News 8 March
Americas
Barbados - Judge tells Dodds to get COVID plan
https://www.nationnews.com/2022/03/08/judge-tells-dodds-get-covid-plan/
Canada - There is still a prison pandemic
https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/march-2022/prison-covid-19-cases/
Canada - With so few people in NWT jails, territory looks at options
https://cabinradio.ca/87169/news/justice/with-so-few-people-in-nwt-jails-territory-looks-at-options/
US - How Corporations Turned Prison Tablets into A Predatory Scheme
https://theappeal.org/prison-tablets-ipads-jpay-securus-gtl/
US - Prisons skimp on Covid treatments like Paxlovid, even as Biden plans to flood pharmacies with it
https://www.statnews.com/2022/03/08/prisons-skimp-covid-treatments-paxlovid/?utm_campaign=rss
Asia
Myanmar Junta Denies Medical Treatment to Prisoners Sick With COVID-19
Europe
England and Wales - MPs ‘unconvinced’ by MoJ’s ‘meagre ambition’ to tackle Crown Court backlog
https://www.thejusticegap.com/mps-unconvinced-by-mojs-meagre-ambition-to-tackle-crown-court-backlog/
Oceania
New Zealand - Prison Covid restrictions could trigger Waikeria riots repeat, warns partner
New Zealand - Covid at Otago prison
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/south-otago/covid-otago-prison
News 5-7 March
Africa
South Africa - Overcrowded Westville female prison in KwaZulu-Natal a concern
Uganda - Parliament committee ready to support prisons
https://www.kfm.co.ug/news/parliament-committee-ready-to-support-prisons.html
Americas
COVID cases have doubled in Canadian prisons as uptick in vaccination across prisoners lull
US - As COVID spread in federal prisons, many at-risk inmates tried and failed to get out
US (Florida) - Bail amounts lowered for COVID, and crime didn't rise. Officials debate making it permanent.
Oceania
New Zealand - Prisoners need a bail-out from Omicron, say advocates
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/prisoners-need-a-bail-out-from-omicron-say-advocates
New Zealand - Covid-19: Suspension of prison visits tough on families
News 4 March
Americas
US - Nevada prisons abandon plan to fire employees who did not get COVID vaccine
US - Wyoming DOC allows normal prison visits to resume, begins easing other COVID-19 restrictions
US - In-person visits to resume at Philadelphia prisons
https://whyy.org/articles/in-person-visits-to-resume-at-philadelphia-prisons/
Asia
Hong Kong - Outbreaks at prisons leave manpower stretched: CSD
https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1637021-20220303.htm?spTabChangeable=0
Europe
England and Wales - County court delays still much higher than pre-pandemic, MoJ reveals
Northern Ireland - NI prisons are seeing a spike in cases of Covid-19
https://www.surreycomet.co.uk/news/19967943.ni-prisons-seeing-spike-cases-covid-19/
Oceania
New Zealand - Chief justice: Covid-19 has caused unprecedented challenges in NZ's courts
News 3 March
Africa
Ghana - Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative calls for decriminalisation of petty offences
Americas
US (Minnesota) - Drop in MN COVID numbers means back to jail for some work-release participants
US - Fewer than 10% of applicants have been granted medical parole, frustrating some Mass. lawmakers
https://www.wbur.org/news/2022/03/03/mci-norfolk-wellpath-medical-parole-debate
Asia
Coronavirus: Hong Kong prisons report 1,000 cases among inmates, third correctional facility repurposed for isolation
Europe
England and Wales - Nightingale Courts extended to support justice recovery
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/nightingale-courts-extended-to-support-justice-recovery
Shock Scottish Prison Service figures obtained through Freedom of Information Act show drugs, weapon and mobile phone seizures from Her Majesty's Inverness Porterfield prison rose dramatically during the Covid-19 pandemic
News 2 March
Americas
US - COVID impact on NY courts still felt, but isn't the sole factor for backlogs
US (New York) - Two Years Into Pandemic, Basic Critiques of Prison Covid Policies Remain Unaddressed
https://www.nysfocus.com/2022/03/01/covid-prison-policies-unaddressed-critiques/
US (Wisconsin) - 'People really depend on the visits': Inmate advocates celebrate return of in-person visits at state prisons
Asia
Thailand - Prisons warned over work rules
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2272235/prisons-warned-over-work-rules
Europe
England and Wales - Holme House Covid outbreak - but prisoners 'still must isolate if they are positive'
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/holme-house-covid-outbreak-prisoners-23248330
Maltese prisons during Covid-19 didn’t violate human rights
https://www.courthousenews.com/maltese-prisons-during-covid-19-didnt-violate-human-rights/
News 1 March
Africa
Uganda - Prison Service Closes 59 Isolation Centres, Removes Restriction on Visits
Americas
US - Will Biden Step Up on Solitary Confinement?
https://theappeal.org/biden-federal-prison-solitary-confinement-ban/
US - California prisoners given substandard medical care and families left in the dark, loved ones say
Europe
England and Wales - 'Failing' HMP Swaleside 'understaffed' and 'unsafe' says new prison report
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/sheerness/news/kent-jail-is-failing-says-new-report-263207/
England and Wales - Exeter Prison Covid outbreak affected more than 100 people
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/exeter-prison-covid-outbreak-affected-6731094
News 26 – 28 February
Americas
US - Wisconsin prisons to allow in-person visits again
https://www.nbc15.com/2022/02/26/wisconsin-prisons-allow-in-person-visits-again/
US - Releases From Hawaii Prisons Slowed During Pandemic Despite Supreme Court Orders
Asia
Covid-19: Omicron breaches Hong Kong’s prisons, with more than 200 inmates infected
India - 'Poor suffer in jail, rich get bail': SC for early release of prisoners serving over 10 years
Philippines -94% of BuCor personnel COVID vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2022/02/27/94-of-bucor-personnel-covid-vaccinated/
Europe
Northern Ireland - Prison Service staff brave and exemplar during pandemic - Director General
Northern Ireland - Concerns raised over drug use at Magilligan Prison
Oceania
Australia - Acacia Prison inmates riot in 'protracted incident' after COVID-19 control measures deployed
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-27/acacia-prisoners-riot-after-partial-covid-lockdown/100866380
Australia - NSW fails to parole low-risk prisoners despite Covid-19 provision
New Zealand - Omicron prison amnesty not possible
https://waateanews.com/2022/02/28/omicron-prison-amnesty-not-possible/
New Zealand - Statement: Protect People In Prison From COVID-19
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2202/S00230/statement-protect-people-in-prison-from-covid-19.htm
Tonga - 68 new COVID cases, include 1 in Vava'u and 42 in prison
https://matangitonga.to/2022/02/26/68-new-covid-cases-include-1-vavau-and-42-prison
News 25 February
Americas
US - Study: Suicide rate 3 times higher for people in jail than prison, general public
https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2022/02/24/study-suicide-jail/1781645733000/
US - North Carolina prison inmates initiate hunger strike against inhumane treatment and grossly inadequate pandemic response
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2022/02/25/hung-f25.html
US - State looks to ease COVID restrictions in Vermont prisons
https://www.wcax.com/2022/02/24/state-looks-ease-covid-restrictions-vermont-prisons/
Asia
Hong Kong's Omicron-fuelled outbreak spreads within prisons
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid in prisons – a wake up call
https://waateanews.com/2022/02/25/covid-in-prisons-a-wake-up-call/
New Zealand - Covid-19: Three staff at Rolleston Prison test positive for virus
News 24 February
Americas
US - Covid Aid to Protect Montana Prisons and Jails Sits Unused
https://khn.org/news/article/covid-aid-to-protect-montana-prisons-and-jails-sits-unused/
US (California) - When Omicron Surges, Prisoners Have Little Protection
https://knock-la.com/california-prisons-omicron-covid/
Asia
Israel's Prisons Hold Thousands of Inmates in Solitary Confinement, Some for Years
Europe
Defendants waiting over six months for trial up 15% in England and Wales
England and Wales - Prisoners faced ‘significant human rights concerns’ during pandemic, say watchdog
Scotland - Hundreds of prisoners freed early without being tested for Covid-19
Oceania
Australia - Fears COVID will spread like 'wildfire' in WA prison system as Roebourne vax rate revealed
New Zealand - Fifty per cent increase in prisoners with Covid after RAT tests included in figure
News 23 February
Americas
Jolted by deadly prison riots, Ecuador to pardon 5,000 inmates
US - Non-contact visitation reinstated at Louisiana’s state-run prisons
https://www.kalb.com/2022/02/22/non-contact-visitation-reinstated-louisianas-state-run-prisons/
Europe
Concerns raised over Scotland's record court backlog for SNP ministers to solve
Oceania
Australia - Few WA prisoners have had COVID-19 booster jab despite Omicron's steady rise
New Zealand - Covid-19: Outbreak in Paremoremo maximum security prison
News 22 February
Africa
Ugandans would face fines, jail for refusing COVID jab under new law
Americas
Fight in a Brazilian jail causes five dead and 18 wounded
Riot inside Mexican prison injures 20 officers in Acapulco
Asia
Dozens of woman prisoners contract Omicron in Iran’s Orumiyeh
https://kurdistanhumanrights.org/en/dozens-of-woman-prisoners-contract-omicron-in-irans-orumiyeh/
Europe
England and Wales - Our criminal justice system needs major surgery, not a band aid
France - Covid-19 : 83 détenus positifs à la prison de Saint-Martin-de-Ré en Charente-Maritime
Oceania
Australia (Victoria) - Keeping Justice System Moving Through Covid
https://www.miragenews.com/keeping-justice-system-moving-through-covid-729230/
New Zealand - Release prisoners amid Covid surge - Māori Pandemic Group
https://www.teaomaori.news/release-prisoners-amid-covid-surge-maori-pandemic-group
News 19 – 21 February
Asia
Coronavirus: lawyers voice concern after Hong Kong prison service stops visits, court trips for all inmates to conduct Covid-19 testing
Nepal - President grants amnesty to 513 prisoners
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/president-grants-amnesty-to-513-prisoners
Europe
Ireland - Covid outbreak confirmed at Castlerea Prison
Italy - 29 served warrants for pandemic prison riot
Over one million remote links in Northern Ireland courts since pandemic began
Scotland - Ministers urged to take action over prison self-harm incidents
Oceania
New Zealand - 600 locked down amid Prison Covid outbreak
https://www.teaomaori.news/600-locked-down-amid-prison-covid-outbreak
News 18 February
Africa
Morocco - Prisons: reprise des visites familiales à partir du 28 février
https://www.barlamane.com/fr/prisons-reprise-des-visites-familiales-a-partir-du-28-fevrier/
MPs decry state of prison facilities in Northern Uganda
Americas
Cuba’s prison population is vaccinated and administration of boosters underway
US - A Pandemic of Litigation: Prisons and COVID-19 Class Actions
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=23512506-8ec5-46ce-a9fa-41e01bbc1c69
Senate launches group to examine embattled US prison system
US - Covid-19 rips through West Virginia women's prison as federal agency takes heat
https://edition.cnn.com/2022/02/18/health/covid-19-inmate-deaths/index.html
Asia
Coronavirus: more than 7,000 inmates, persons remanded in Hong Kong prisons to test for Covid-19 amid ‘first widespread infections’
Malaysia - Japan contributes saliva test kit, surgical isolation suits to Prison Dept
Pakistan - Prisoners across Punjab await booster jabs
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2344090/prisoners-across-punjab-await-booster-jabs
Europe
England and Wales to get extra 4,000 prison places in record expansion
England and Wales - Kent's Crown Court case backlog rises by 46%
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-60423173
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid-19: Auckland South prison cluster grows to 50 prisoners and 13 staff
New Zealand - Access to justice a concern as backlog grows in district courts
https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/02/18/access-to-justice-a-concern-as-backlog-grows-in-district-courts/
News 17 February
Africa
Mauritius - COVID-19 : Le Virus Sévit À La Prison Des Femmes
https://www.zinfos-moris.com/Covid-19-Le-virus-sevit-a-la-prison-des-femmes_a27985.html
Nigeria - Reps order probe of prison inmates’ welfare, officials’ working condition
Americas
US (New Jersey) - More than 50% of N.J. corrections workers remain unvaccinated hours before mandate deadline
US (Connecticut) - Opinion: COVID lessons from a CT prison
https://www.nhregister.com/opinion/article/Opinion-COVID-lessons-from-a-CT-prison-16923728.php
Asia
Covid-19: Detention centre to be converted into quarantine facility for Hong Kong prisoners amid outbreak
India - Representation in Delhi HC seeks premature release of old aged, infirm prisoners from overcrowded prisons
India - Social distancing not feasible in jails, says representation in Delhi HC
https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=927728
For First Time Since COVID, Israel to Allow Visitation Rights for Gaza Prisoners
Europe
France - Crise du Covid. 68 millions d’euros de dépenses supplémentaires dans les prisons en 2020
Northern Ireland prisons to relax Covid rules over six-week period
Oceania
New Zealand - Lockouts and lockdowns slow Omicron’s ‘wildfire spread’ through prisons
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/lockouts-and-lockdowns-slow-omicrons-wildfire-spread-through-prisons
News 16 February
Americas
US (Illinois) - Low vaccination rates among IDOC staff having trickle-down effect, activists say
US (Michigan) - Riskiest place for COVID-19? Jails and prisons, advocates say
US - COVID updates: In-person visitation to remain suspended at California prisons
https://www.sacbee.com/news/coronavirus/article258418633.html
US (Washington DC) - D.C. jail settles lawsuit over inmate covid conditions by ACLU, Public Defender Service
https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/02/15/dc-jail-covid-settlement/
US - South Jersey prison inmates rioted in early days of pandemic; the legal fallout is ongoing
Asia
India - Covid restrictions lifted, prisoners across TN allowed to have visitors once a week
Malaysia - Kepayan Prison hit by cluster for the third time
https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/187083/kepayan-prison-hit-by-cluster-for-the-third-time/
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Bristol prisoners without heating as issues are 'urgently resolved'
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/hmp-bristol-prisoners-without-heating-6661482
Northern Ireland - Courts backlog could stretch beyond 2027 without extra funding, minister warns
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/naomi-long-courts-b2015610.html
Oceania
Australia - Omicron reaches WA prison, 115 new cases
https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/7623569/omicron-reaches-wa-prison-115-new-cases/
New Zealand - Covid-19: Six prisons report cases, 45 staff stood down
News 9 – 15 February
Americas
Barbados - Prison boss apologises to officers for ad hoc COVID testing
https://barbadostoday.bb/2022/02/10/prison-boss-apologises-to-officers-for-ad-hoc-covid-testing/
Canada - Inmates, advocates denounce 'inhuman' 24/7 COVID-19 lockdowns at Quebec's Leclerc jail
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/laval-leclerc-detention-centre-covid-conditions-1.6347221
US - Omicron is creating new havoc in our criminal justice system
US (New Jersey) - N.J. releases more than 200 prisoners over COVID concerns
https://www.nj.com/politics/2022/02/nj-releases-more-than-200-prisoners-over-covid-concerns.html
US - Mask mandate lifted at Nevada prisons, visitation to resume Monday
https://mynews4.com/news/local/mask-mandate-lifted-at-nevada-prisons-visitation-to-resume-monday
US - Minnesota prisoners face continued crises as COVID runs unchecked
US - Delaware resumes in-person prison visits to ‘strengthen those connections’ interrupted three times during pandemic
US - Drug Confiscations in NYC Jails Doubled During Pandemic Visitor Ban
https://www.newsweek.com/drug-confiscations-nyc-jails-doubled-during-pandemic-visitor-ban-1678112
Asia
India - Mass jailing of undertrials must end
https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/mass-jailing-of-undertrials-must-end-7771426/
India - COVID-19: Don't insist prisoners out on parole to surrender, says Supreme Court to Kerala
Iran - Omicron outbreak in Qarchak and Evin prisons
https://women.ncr-iran.org/2022/02/14/omicron-outbreak-in-qarchak/
Philippines - Gov’t urged to address needs of women prisoners
https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/02/15/govt-urged-to-address-needs-of-women-prisoners/
Philippines - 96 percent of BuCor’s PDLs vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2022/02/15/96-percent-of-bucors-pdls-vaccinated/
Thailand - All prison inmates to get third Covid dose by month-end
https://www.nationthailand.com/in-focus/40012180
Europe
England and Wales - HMPPS COVID-19 statistics : January 2022
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/hmpps-covid-19-statistics-january-2022
England and Wales - Record levels of self-harm found at Derbyshire women’s prison – report
England and Wales - Covid: HMP Northumberland hit by new coronavirus outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-60337643
Ireland - Prison service ups limit for in-person visits
https://www.lawsociety.ie/gazette/top-stories/2022/prison-service-ups-limit-for-in-person-visits
Four in 10 jail inmates in Northern Ireland have not had their day in court
Scotland - ‘40,000 trials waiting so why are courts empty day after day?’
https://news.stv.tv/feature/40000-trials-waiting-so-why-are-courts-empty-day-after-day
Oceania
Australia (NSW) - Jail reform advocates call for prisoners to be released amid COVID-19 lockdowns
https://7news.com.au/news/coronavirus/call-for-prisoners-release-amid-covid-19-c-5645963
Australia (Queensland) - Prison COVID Tally Hits 454
https://southburnett.com.au/news2/2022/02/14/prison-covid-tally-hits-454/
New Zealand - Government Must Protect People In Prisons
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2202/S00124/government-must-protect-people-in-prisons.htm
New Zealand - Covid-19: 'High risk' Auckland prison cluster passes 50 cases
News 8 February
Americas
US - Statistics Show Federal Bureau Of Prisons Unable To Implement Key Policies During Crisis
US - ‘Just kind of bracing for the worst possible scenario’: Michigan inmates worry as omicron spreads
US (Illinois) - State resumes prisoner transfers after virus surge
Europe
England and Wales - Seven suicides in a year at Wandsworth
https://insidetime.org/seven-suicides-in-a-year-at-wandsworth/
Irish prison chief welcomes criticism as report condemns overcrowding, sharing cells and poor out-of-cell time
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-chief-welcomes-criticism-26164510
News 5-7 February
Americas
St Lucia - Bordelais Correctional Facility Managing Impact of COVID-19 Fifth Wave
US - Omicron amplifies challenges across Vermont’s prison system
https://vtdigger.org/2022/02/06/omicron-amplifies-challenges-across-vermonts-prison-system/
Asia
India - The trials and tribulations of inmates’ kin
Europe
England and Wales - Charity warns of 'mental health crisis in prisons'
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19897460.charity-warns-mental-health-crisis-prisons/
England and Wales - Continued Covid lockdown could cause unrest, Prison Service warns
https://insidetime.org/continued-covid-lockdown-could-cause-unrest-prison-service-warns/
England and Wales - The Verne: Five prisoners died in coronavirus outbreak
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-60260944
Ireland - Short jail terms being handed ‘too often’ ahead of community service, report warns
Conditions in Irish prisons have worsened, report warns
Ireland - Pandemic had 'devastating' impact on family contact for prisoners - IPRT
https://www.rte.ie/news/2022/0207/1278220-prison-visits/
Oceania
Australia - WA prisoners ‘fear’ contracting COVID-19 after not being given proper access to vaccines
News 4 February
Americas
Barbados: COVID outbreak at Dodds prison
https://caribbean.loopnews.com/content/barbados-covid-outbreak-dodds-prison
US - California Prisons Face 3rd Wave of COVID, Some Without Vaccine Mandates
Asia
India - Prison Statistics Report 2020 Shows Govt’s Negligence of Prisoners During the Pandemic
https://thewire.in/health/prison-statistics-report-2020-government-negligence-health-rights-pandemic
Europe
Europe - Covid-19 and prisons: painful closures and encouraging innovations
England and Wales - Prisoners die and staff hospitalised during major Covid outbreak at Dorset prison
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/prisoners-die-staff-hospitalised-during-083918925.html
Gibraltar - No impact on visits despite more Covid cases at Windmill Hill prison
https://www.chronicle.gi/no-impact-on-visits-despite-more-covid-cases-at-windmill-hill-prison/
Ireland - No Covid-19 pandemic bonus for prison nurses - Laois TD calls on Govt to cough up
News 3 February
Africa
Uganda - MPs Ssewanyana, Ssegirinya Protest Ban on Visitors in Prison
https://softpower.ug/mps-ssewanyana-ssegirinya-protest-ban-on-visitors-in-prison/
Americas
Canada - Op-ed: The pandemic sentences prisoners to endless COVID lockdowns
https://nowtoronto.com/news/op-ed-the-pandemic-is-sentencing-prisoners-to-covid-lockdowns
Inmates vaccinated against Covid-19 in Cuba
https://www.plenglish.com/news/2022/02/02/inmates-vaccinated-against-covid-19-in-cuba/
Covid ‘Raging’ Among Prisoners Across US
https://khn.org/morning-breakout/covid-raging-among-prisoners-across-us/
US - COVID Cases in Youth Prisons Are Cutting Vulnerable Kids Off From Their Parents
US - Advocates call for COVID-19 protections for Minnesota prisoners
Asia
Cambodia - Ministry and Red Cross discuss new ‘early release from prison’ programmes
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid-19: No known virus transmission in NZ prisons, so far
News 2 February
Americas
Canada - Prison guards deserve PCR tests, COVID hazard pay, says union for Pacific Region officers
Canada - 4 inmates at HMP test positive for COVID-19
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/hmp-covid-nl-1.6334775
Europe
France - Cluster à la prison de Roanne : 193 détenus sont positifs au Covid-19
Northern Ireland - Eleven Maghaberry prisoners take legal action over use of solitary confinement
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/eleven-maghaberry-prisoners-legal-action-160612045.html
Two-thirds of Serbia’s convicts vaccinated against COVID-19
News 1 February
Americas
Antigua - Five prison inmates test positive for Covid
https://antiguaobserver.com/five-prison-inmates-test-positive-for-covid/
Canada - At least one unit at Her Majesty's Penitentiary in St. John's reportedly on COVID-19 lockdown
US (Pennsylvania) - Inmates Say They Were Denied Court, Attorney Access Amid COVID
https://www.governing.com/now/inmates-say-they-were-denied-court-attorney-access-amid-covid
US - Op-Ed: California’s blocked vaccine mandate for prison guards is public health idiocy
https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-02-01/california-covid-prison-guards
US - Idaho National Guard to Aid COVID-Hit Prisons, Clinics
US (North Carolina) - Breaking Point: Families and loved ones of incarcerated people feel the collateral damage of incarceration in COVID
Asia
Thailand - 76 inmates escape over the past several months, many from prison quarantine
Europe
England and Wales - Rochester Prison inspection finds rodent infestation, dangerous electrics and undignified toilets
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/poor-living-conditions-found-in-prison-inspection-261642/
Northern Ireland prisons: 'Solitary confinement' breaking UN standards
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-60199921
Scotland - Court-related social work orders slumped during lockdown
https://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/19887179.court-related-social-work-orders-slumped-lockdown/
Oceania
Australia (NT) - COVID-19 outbreak grows at Alice Springs prison as almost half of all inmates test positive
Australia (NSW) - COVID Positive Inmates Try to Avoid Detection, as Hundreds Infected Inside
New Zealand - Covid 19 Omicron outbreak: Prisoner at Northland Region Corrections Facility tests positive
News 29 – 31 January
Africa
Liberia prisons: Where inmates are short of food, space and uniforms
Americas
Canada - Dozens infected as COVID outbreak at the Ottawa jail extends into fifth week
Cayman Islands - Thirty-one prisoners and 16 prison staff have COVID-19
https://cayman.loopnews.com/content/thirty-one-prisoners-and-16-prison-staff-have-covid-19
US - To Better Address COVID-19 Among Incarcerated People, More Collaboration Is Needed Between State Departments Of Health And Departments Of Corrections
https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/forefront.20220127.35520
US (California) - Op-Ed: We pleaded for social distancing here in San Quentin. The state refused, and now COVID is raging
https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-01-28/covid-prison-san-quentin-ruling
Asia
India - How counselling helped inmates in Delhi's Tihar Jail tide over Covid-19 anxiety
India - e-Mulaqat a boon for foreign prisoners during Covid times
Europe
Covid dans les prisons en Luxembourg: détenus positifs et négatifs ensemble
Scotland - Shotts Prison staff hospitalised following 'near riot'
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid-19: How prepared is NZ’s prison system for Omicron?
News 28 January
Americas
Guyana - Gov’t still ‘wrestling’ with reform in prisons – Benn
https://newsroom.gy/2022/01/28/govt-still-wrestling-with-reform-in-prisons-benn/
US (Texas) - Man’s death marks the 17th prisoner death from COVID at Federal Medical Center Fort Worth
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/coronavirus/article257768453.html
US (Illinois) - Protest demands freedom for prisoners facing COVID outbreak
http://www.fightbacknews.org/2022/1/27/protest-demands-freedom-prisoners-facing-covid-outbreak
Asia
India - Don't Insist On Surrender Of Prisoners Released On Parole; Consider Releasing Prisoners Due To COVID Surge : Supreme Court Directs Kerala Govt
Europe
England and Wales - Deaths in prison reach record high as one person self harms every 10 minutes
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/deaths-prison-reach-record-high-22902124
Spain - Sevilla prison dealing with huge Covid outbreak among inmates
News 27 January
Africa
Egypt reforms prisons and highlights rights, in moves critics call hollow
Americas
Canada - Alta. prison a ‘pressure cooker’ amid guard absences, enhanced security protocol: lawyers
Canada - 66 inmates, 40 staff test positive for COVID at jail
US - Senators say they were denied full access to federal prison
US - 34 Illinois Prisons on Lockdown due to Covid-19 Surge
https://wlds.com/34-illinois-prisons-on-lockdown-due-to-covid-19-surge/
Asia
Malaysia - Prisoners allowed visitors for Chinese New Year, says Prisons Dept
Europe
Northern Ireland - In-person prison visits to resume – Prison Service
https://news.causewaycoastcommunity.co.uk/in-person-prison-visits-to-resume-prison-service/
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Omicron outbreak: Dozens of Corrections staff lose jobs over vaccine mandate
News 26 January
Americas
Canada - Advocates concerned as Saskatoon, Prince Albert correctional centres see large spike in COVID-19
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/saskatchewan-saskatoon-corrections-covid-inmates-1.6327027
9 dead, 7 injured as inmates riot inside Mexican prison
https://www.titusvilleherald.com/news/article_3659390b-99b3-5330-b11a-678252e658f7.html
US - Bureau of Prisons needs to do more to address staff confusion over COVID-19 policies, report says
US - Unvaccinated Pennsylvania Prisoners Stuck in Lockdown
Asia
Malaysia - Prisons Dept will form committee to tackle overcrowding in prisons
https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/prisons-dept-will-form-committee-tackle-overcrowding-prisons
Europe
Ireland - Covid playing havoc with Courts as no more hearing dates available in 2022
News 25 January
Americas
US - Reported COVID cases in Louisiana prisons more than double in a week
US - Illinois prisons on COVID lockdown as cases soar among inmates
https://abc7chicago.com/illinois-covid-cases-state-prison-lockdown/11505855/
US (Michigan) - MDOC reports record high COVID cases in prisons statewide
US (Pennsylvania) - State prisons to halt in-person visitation through February
Asia
Prisoners in Iran go on hunger strike over Covid-19 death of inmate
Maldives - Maafushi Prison: 51positive cases, 211 quarantined
Europe
England and Wales - Report finds policy to vaccinate inmates and not staff at HMP The Verne 'indefensible'
Oceania
Australia - NSW prisons urged to use emergency release powers as Covid cases surge
Australia (Queensland) - COVID-19 outbreak in Lotus Glen Correctional Facility, more than 100 inmates test positive
News 22 – 24 January
Americas
British Virgin Islands - COVID scare! 23 prison officers, several inmates ‘down’ — Malone
https://bvinews.com/covid-scare-23-prison-officers-several-inmates-down-malone/
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak impacts Springhill prison
https://www.saltwire.com/atlantic-canada/news/covid-19-outbreak-impacts-springhill-prison-100683522/
Covid danger in St Lucia’s tiny courts puts stop to murder trials
US - New data shows startling rise in prison deaths during 2020
https://www.npr.org/2022/01/22/1075108313/new-data-shows-startling-rise-in-prison-deaths-during-2020
US - Federal Prisons: Monitoring Efforts to Implement COVID-19 Recommendations and Examining First Step Act Implementation
https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-105691
Asia
India - Thiruvananthapuram: 239 prison inmates at Poojapura test Covid positive
Nepal - High vigilance in prison as COVID-19 infection rises
https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/high-vigilance-in-prison-as-covid-19-infection-rises/
Europe
Ireland - Some restrictions to prison visits to remain
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2022/0124/1275484-prison-visits/
Ireland - Covid outbreak at Cork prison
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40790994.html
Ireland - 100 Inmates At Midlands Prison Test Positive For Covid
Deaths in Scots prisons are on the rise as shock figures confirm 'worst fears' of grieving families
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/deaths-scots-prisons-rise-shock-26017387
Turkey’s economic crisis hits prison visits
https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-prisons/turkeys-economic-crisis-hits-prison-visits
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 scare in Hakea Prison as worries grow over vaccination rollout for prisoners
News 21 January
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 exacerbates ‘filthy and inhumane’ conditions in Montreal jail
https://ricochet.media/en/3830/covid-19-exacerbates-filthy-and-inhumane-conditions-in-montreal-jail
US - North Dakota prison system feeling impact of omicron variant
https://www.westport-news.com/news/article/North-Dakota-prison-system-feeling-impact-of-16791114.php
US (California) - Gavin Newsom Is Fighting A Vaccine Mandate For Prison Staff — At The Expense Of Prisoners
US - Florida Prisoners Lack Access to COVID Boosters Amid Omicron Uptick
https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/florida-prisoners-booster-shots-covid-19-13652844
Asia
India - Only 39 per cent fully jabbed in 3 Delhi prisons
Europe
England and Wales - Victims face waits of nearly two years to get justice in crown courts
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/victims-face-waits-nearly-two-22820380
News 20 January
Americas
Canada - 28 inmates catch COVID-19 at federal prison in B.C.'s Fraser Valley
Canada - Over a dozen inmates, staff at central Ontario jail test positive for COVID-19
US - Jails In Jeopardy Following New Treasury Rule: Federal Covid Relief Must Help People
US - Current COVID surge also affecting Indiana prisons
https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/covid-cases-indiana-prisons
Asia
India - Yerawada jail officials seek for more space as Covid cases rise
Europe
Forcing jab will only worsen jail overcrowding: Belgian MP
https://www.brusselstimes.com/202256/forcing-jab-will-only-worsen-jail-overcrowding-belgian-mp
Italy - COVID jail inmate cases more than doubles in 10 days
Scotland - More than 200 inmates isolating after latest outbreak hits HMP Perth
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/courts/2924601/perth-prison-covid-lockdown/
News 19 January
Americas
US (Michigan) - Corrections Department eases rules for COVID-positive prison officers to go back to work
US - Michigan prisoners wait for classes needed to be released
https://www.wilx.com/2022/01/18/michigan-prisoners-wait-classes-needed-be-released/
US - Visits suspended at Idaho prison as COVID cases rise, vaccine and booster requests mount
https://www.idahostatesman.com/opinion/from-the-opinion-editor/article257340757.html
US - COVID-19 spreading rapidly in Illinois prisons
Asia
India - Covid centres, constant watch, doctors on duty — how crammed Delhi prisons are tackling 3rd wave
India - Mumbai: Video call facility between prisoners and their relatives resumes
Europe
Turkey - ‘Roof leaks, insects crawl in prison’s quarantine ward’
News 18 January
Mental health care for detainees failing worldwide
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-01-mental-health-detainees-worldwide.html
Americas
St Lucia - BCF Official Supports Electronic Monitoring For Low-Risk Offenders
https://stluciatimes.com/bcf-official-supports-electronic-monitoring-for-low-risk-offenders/
US - Arizona prison to stop accepting nonviolent offenders due to COVID outbreak
US - Detainees Sue Arkansas Jail That Gave Them Ivermectin to Treat Covid
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/17/us/ivermectin-covid-arkansas-jail.html
Europe
England and Wales - Magistrates to be given power to jail offenders for up to a year to help clear court delays
Guernsey Prison bans visitors and enters special measures after Covid cases
Oceania
New Zealand - Calling home: Why phone access for prisoners matters
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/calling-home-why-phone-access-for-prisoners-matters
News 15 – 17 January
Africa
South Africa - Prisons Accused Of Using Solitary Confinement As Torture: Oversight Body
https://ewn.co.za/2022/01/16/prisons-accused-of-using-solitary-confinement-as-torture-oversight-body
Americas
Barbados - Prison Service lauded for controlling outbreak
https://www.nationnews.com/2022/01/17/prison-service-lauded-controlling-outbreak/
Canada - More than half of prisoners at Burnside jail have had COVID-19
Canada - Nearly 30 per cent of Ontario jail inmates are in COVID-19 isolation
Massive drop in US prison population unlikely to hold post-pandemic
https://www.thejusticegap.com/massive-drop-in-us-prison-population-unlikely-to-hold-post-pandemic/
US (North Carolina) - NC prisons chief on COVID: ‘We’ve scrambled, improvised ... and learned from mistakes’
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/opinion/article257290287.html
US - In-person visits suspended at Wisconsin prisons as COVID-19 cases triple among inmates in 1 week
Asia
India - COVID-19: Madhya Pradesh government bans visitors from meeting jail inmates till March end
India - Delhi: Over 90 inmates, 80 jail staffers have tested positive for Covid-19
Iran -Covid-19 outbreak spreading women’s ward of Sepidar Prison of Ahvaz
https://iran-hrm.com/2022/01/16/covid-19-outbreak-spreading-womens-ward-of-sepidar-prison-of-ahvaz/
Maldives - Maafushi Prison brought under state of emergency due to Covid-19 outbreak
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Disgraceful’ Covid-19 restrictions on children in prison to end in March
Ireland - Covid-19 outbreak team reactivated at one of Portlaoise's jails
News 14 January
Africa
Inmates stage riot in Kenyan prison
https://newsaf.cgtn.com/news/2022-01-14/Inmates-stage-riot-in-Kenyan-prison-16NBudxQC8E/index.html
Americas
Omicron variant causes full lock-down at Belize Central Prison
Canada - Indigenous Inmates Testing Positive For COVID-19 At Higher Rates In Federal Prisons – National
US - Prison Population Drops as States Revamp Admission Policies
https://www.governing.com/community/prison-population-drops-as-states-revamp-admission-policies
US - New Rule Makes Thousands of Federal Inmates Eligible for Release
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/13/us/politics/federal-prisoners-release.html
US - COVID Cases Triple In California Juvenile Prisons
https://laist.com/news/criminal-justice/covid-cases-triple-in-california-juvenile-prisons
US - Significant COVID-19 outbreaks reported at New Orleans jail, Louisiana state prisons
Asia
India - Physical meetings with family and lawyer stopped, but phone call facility yet to resume: Inmates to court
Malaysia - Virtual hearings the way forward post-Covid-19 pandemic, says Chief Justice
Europe
England and Wales - 'Fear, isolation and distress': Pentonville Prison during Covid-19
https://www.islingtongazette.co.uk/news/health/pentonville-prison-covid-report-8619484
England and Wales - Hindley Prison told to increase face-to-face education for inmates
Oceania
Australia - NT youth detainees test positive for COVID
News 13 January
Americas
Although increasingly authoritarian, Ecuador is unable to get a grip on its prison problem
Jamaica - Stand Up for Ja renews call for early prison release amid COVID outbreak
US - Prison Reforms Since COVID Called Uneven, ‘Disheartening’
US - Omicron hits Michigan's prisons, which rank second in nation for COVID cases
US - Washington prisons close to visitors through Feburary at the earliest due to Omicron outbreaks
US (Oregon) - State corrections reports spike in Covid cases among employees, people in prison over past two weeks
Asia
Probe into deadly riots at prisons in Philippines
https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/185160/probe-into-deadly-riots-at-prisons-in-p-pines/
Europe
France - En prison, alerte sur "l'épuisement physique et moral" des détenus
Ireland - No temporary release for Limerick prisoners despite Covid cases
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40783602.html
At least 59 ill prisoners lost their lives in Turkey in a year
Oceania
Australia - Visits suspended at multiple Queensland Correctional Centres
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-suspended-at-multiple-queensland-706316/
News 12 January
Americas
US - As COVID Cases Spike, Federal Bureau Of Prisons Is Not Releasing Eligible Inmates
US - Omicron wreaks havoc across California prison facilities as staff cases surge
US - While Active Cases Remain Low, Omicron Threat Looms in Oklahoma Prisons
US (Nebraska) - Overcrowded and understaffed, prisons costly for taxpayers; unsafe for prisoners and guards
US - Illinois prisons pause county intakes due to pandemic
US (New York) - Rikers inmates on hunger strike to protest conditions, COVID lockdown
Europe
European Prisons Push Back Against COVID-19
England and Wales - Covid-19 restrictions 'caused increase in violence at women's prison'
England and Wales - HMP Hewell: Troubled prison improving but problems persist
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-59954611
News 11 January
Americas
British Virgin Islands - Court hearings move online, prison visits suspended amid COVID surge
https://bvinews.com/court-hearings-move-online-prison-visits-suspended-amid-covid-surge/
US (Wisconsin) - Inmates Flood Toilets to Protest Food, Hygiene Issues as Omicron Fuels Staffing Shortage
US (Nevada) - Prison system details rise COVID-19 cases that led to halt in visitations
US - More than 3,800 California prison staffers have coronavirus amid massive surge this month
Asia
India - Central jail authorities revive anti-Covid measures
Philippines - Rights group says PH jails ‘least safe from Omicron’
https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/01/11/rights-group-says-ph-jails-least-safe-from-omicron/
Europe
Ireland - Mass testing after Covid cases detected in Limerick Prison
https://www.limerickpost.ie/2022/01/10/mass-testing-after-covid-cases-detected-in-limerick-prison/
Scotland - 'Credible' options to jail needed to cut prisoner numbers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59940840
Oceania
Australia - Tasmania's Risdon prison battles COVID outbreak, fears workers and prisoners
News 8-10 January
Americas
Antigua - Prison inmates begin to get booster shots
https://antiguaobserver.com/prison-inmates-begin-to-get-booster-shots/
Canada - 82 prisoners at Burnside jail have COVID-19
https://www.halifaxexaminer.ca/province-house/82-prisoners-at-burnside-jail-have-covid-19/
US - Most Illinois prison staff haven’t gotten Covid-19 boosters
https://www.injusticewatch.org/news/prisons-and-jails/2022/illinois-prison-staff-covid-19-boosters/
US - A Year After NJ Released Thousands Early From Prison, Only 9% Are Back in Custody
https://gothamist.com/news/year-after-nj-released-thousands-early-prison-only-9-are-back-custody
US (Texas) - Tablets for inmates: the tech easing isolation and improving behavior during COVID lockdown
US - Nevada prison system suspends inmate visitations due to COVID surge
US (California) - CDCR: In-Person Inmate Visits Suspended Due To Surge In COVID Cases
https://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2022/01/07/prison-inmates-cdcr-surge/
Asia
Data: Prisons in India continue to be Overcrowded despite COVID-19
https://factly.in/data-prisons-in-india-continue-to-be-overcrowded-despite-covid-19/
India - Amid Covid surge, West Bengal’s jails switch to ‘e-Mulakat’ between prisoners and families
India - About 1,000 Delhi Police personnel, 46 prisoners in Delhi jails test COVID-19 positive
Covid-19 infections on the rise among Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails – Prisoner’s Society
http://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/127582
Nepal - Dilapidated Salyan Prison overcrowded with inmates
Europe
HDP demands action over torture and medical negligence in Turkish prisons
England and Wales - ‘The system has collapsed’ Covid backlog sees number of people on remand in prison at highest level since 2010
https://inews.co.uk/news/covid-court-backlog-remand-prisoners-at-highest-level-since-2010-1368038
England and Wales - ‘Delay and uncertainty is killing people’ as remand inmates account for 40 per cent of suicides in prison
Ireland - Mountjoy Prison hit with riot as lags furious about isolation due to Covid outbreak
https://www.thesun.ie/news/8171599/mountjoy-prison-riot-covid-outbreak/
Irish Prison Service suspends physical visits for two weeks
Isle of Man - Visiting resumes at prison after Covid outbreak
Scotland - More than 100 inmates at Perth Prison isolating after Covid outbreak
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/perth-kinross/2888433/perth-prison-covid-outbreak-isolating/
News 7 January
Americas
Canada - Prison staff shortage possible amid Quebec COVID-19 outbreaks: Union
US - Omicron Outbreaks in Prisons Put Everyone at Risk, But Data Is Scarce
https://truthout.org/articles/omicron-outbreaks-in-prisons-put-everyone-at-risk-but-data-is-scarce/
US - Louisiana prison visits halted for third time due to COVID-19
https://lailluminator.com/briefs/louisiana-prison-visits-halted-for-third-time-due-to-covid-19/
US - How Vermont prisons are dealing with COVID behind bars
https://www.wcax.com/2022/01/06/how-vermont-prisons-are-dealing-with-covid-behind-bars/
Europe
France - Covid-19 : 47% des détenus ont un schéma vaccinal complet, contre 76,9% de la population générale
Italy - COVID: Over 1,000 jail inmates positive, close to 2020 peak
News 6 January
Africa
Uganda: Prisons Restrict Visits Due to Covid-19
https://allafrica.com/stories/202201050587.html
Americas
US - Opinion: The Public Health Case for Decarcerating America’s Prison System
https://undark.org/2022/01/06/the-public-health-case-for-decarcerating-americas-prison-system/
US - Federal prisons director Carvajal announces retirement amid coronavirus deaths, security lapses
US - Unvaccinated staff spread COVID-19 in California prisons
https://www.workers.org/2022/01/60939/
US - Arkansas prisons crack down on safety measures with rising COVID cases
US - As COVID-19 cases surge, Delaware's prison staff have higher infection rate than prisoners
Asia
India - Covid enters Delhi jails: Authorities in ‘wait and watch’ mode
Europe
England and Wales - ‘Vermin-infested’ London prison blighted by sexist and racist staff, warns watchdog
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/london-wandsworth-prison-watchdog-b975048.html
England and Wales - HMP Aylesbury is Covid 'outbreak site' as more prisoners test positive for coronavirus
Covid in Scotland: Backlogged courts about to face worst disruption yet, says official
News 5 January
Africa
Liberia: Major Prison Facilities Shutdown Due to Lack of Food Supply
https://allafrica.com/stories/202201050259.html
Americas
Calls grow for inmate releases as COVID-19 cases climb in Canada’s jails and prisons
https://globalnews.ca/news/8487449/covid-19-jails-prisons-inmate-release/
Canada - COVID-19 spreads to inmates from staff at Drumheller prison; more than 100 cases total
US - Latest COVID surge hitting Missouri prisons, treatment centers
Asia
Philippines - Over 46K BuCor inmates jabbed vs. Covid-19
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1164551
Philippines - 4,610 PDLs released by BuCor in 2021
https://mb.com.ph/2022/01/05/4610-pdls-released-by-bucor-in-2021/
Europe
France - Covid-19 : 200 Détenus Isolés Après La Découverte D'un Cluster Au Centre Pénitentiaire De Beauvais
Gibraltar - Prison visits suspended as 19 inmates test positive for Covid-19
https://www.chronicle.gi/prison-visits-suspended-as-19-inmates-test-positive-for-covid-19/
Irish prison chiefs splash out over €485,000 on library books to get inmates through Covid-19 pandemic
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/irish-prison-chiefs-splash-out-25852473
Pandemic in Turkey’s prisons | ‘36 people stay in a quarantine ward’
News 21 December 2021 – 4 January 2022
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreaks now reported at 7 federal prisons, more staff than inmates infected
https://globalnews.ca/news/8482951/covid-canada-prison-outbreaks-2021/
Canada - Advocates want Ottawa to release vulnerable inmates as COVID-19 hits N.S. women's prison
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/outbreak-nova-institute-1.6299971
Haiti: 11 killed in foiled prison break
https://www.tbsnews.net/worldbiz/africa/haiti-11-killed-foiled-prison-break-352882
US - Omicron Has Arrived. Many Prisons and Jails Are Not Ready.
US (California) - Inmates’ attorneys warn of potential coronavirus outbreaks sparked by unvaccinated prison staff
US - ‘It's definitely coming to a boiling point’: Families, inmates worry about what comes next in Kansas prisons
US - Delaware Dept. of Correction suspends prison visitation amid COVID surge
US - Arkansas prisons lockdown amid record coronavirus case count
US Virgin Islands - Corrections Counts 13 COVID-Positive Cases At Facilities
Asia
India - Prisoners’ meetings with relatives suspended amid Covid surge in Bihar
India - Over 21,900 doses of Covid vaccine administered to inmates of 3 jails
India - To deal with Covid case spike, Tihar jail gets its own oxygen plant
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-covid-19-tihar-jail-oxygen-plant-7700410/
Europe
In under-vaccinated Bosnia, inmate population stands out
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/bosnia-europe-sarajevo-balkans-b1983881.html
England and Wales - Prison officer battered senseless and gangs clash in jail violence
England and Wales – The pandemic has been a catastrophe for people in prison. We must learn from it.
England and Wales - Tougher criminal sentences contributing to the courts backlog - new bar chair
Ireland - Covid-19 outbreaks confirmed in four prisons
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/covid-19-outbreaks-confirmed-in-four-prisons-1.4766772
Ireland - Prison Inspector criticises use of solitary confinement to contain Covid-19
Isle of Man - Covid: Jurby prison lockdown eases but visits still suspended
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-59768185
Scotland - Prison suspends in-person and online visits amid 'unforeseen circumstances'
https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/prison-suspends-person-online-visits-22621768
Rights violations in Turkish prisons increased in 2021, says Diyarbakır Bar’s annual report
Despite normalisation, COVID-19 restrictions not lifted in Turkey’s prisons
Oceania
New Zealand - Inmates cause $4.3m worth of damage to prisons in 12 months
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Auckland women's prison worker tests positive, staff, prisoners in isolation
News 20 December
Americas
US - DOJ says inmates on home confinement can stay out of prison
US - Wisconsin prisons struggle with staffing shortage
https://kstp.com/minnesota-news/wisconsin-prisons-struggle-with-staffing-shortage/6338610/?cat=12196
Europe
Ireland - Prison officers' stress at work worsened during pandemic
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40770978.html
Prison visits in Northern Ireland to be suspended
https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/prison-visits-in-northern-ireland-to-be-suspended
Scotland - West Lothian prison Covid outbreak causes chaos as 'several' staff forced to isolate
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/west-lothian-prison-covid-outbreak-22539718
Oceania
Australia - Visits cancelled at Arthur Gorrie and Brisbane Correctional Centre
https://www.miragenews.com/visits-cancelled-at-arthur-gorrie-and-brisbane-699221/
News 19 December
Americas
US - What Officials Can Do to Keep Omicron From Ravaging One of Our Most Vulnerable Populations
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Manchester inmates locked up for 22 hours a day, report finds
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-59733445
Northern Ireland - NI Prison Service Covid-19 measures revised to keep vital system safe
News 18-20 December
Americas
Canada - Indigenous women make up almost half the female prison population, ombudsman says
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/indigenous-women-half-inmate-population-canada-1.6289674
Canada - Depopulate prisons before Omicron hits, Ottawa criminologist urges
Cayman Islands - Same-day testing rules kick in for hospital, home care and prison visits
Trinidad & Tobago - Police, Prisons & Fire Services associations reject 'vaccination-for-pay' initiative
Only four US states are providing data about inmate vaccinations
https://qz.com/2103312/most-us-states-are-not-sharing-information-on-boosters-in-prisons/
Asia
India - Prison population increased by 14% in last 2 years
India - Omicron: Delhi prisons to isolate inmates with Influenza-like illness
India - Gurugram: New inmates at Bhondsi jail to undergo five tests
Philippines - BuCor: 91% of those in jail received anti-Covid vaccine
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/12/20/bucor-91-of-those-in-jail-received-anti-covid-vaccine/
Europe
England and Wales - Male prisoners' free family phone calls are scrapped – but women's aren't under MoJ decision
Backlog in court cases doubles in East of England during pandemic
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-suffolk-59689118
Ireland - Arbour Hill prisoners hit out after being denied showers while being in Covid-19 isolation
In-person visits reduced as tighter Covid restrictions brought in at Jersey's prison
https://www.itv.com/news/channel/2021-12-20/tighter-covid-restrictions-for-inmates-at-jerseys-prison
Malta - Inquiry report calls for major overhaul of prison system
Oceania
Australia - Life on the ward: how do you care for Covid patients in prison?
News 17 December
Africa
Nigeria - Ekiti prison overcrowded, housing 700 inmates instead of 400: Prison Controller
Nigeria - Federal High Court with 75 judges has 128,000 pending cases – Chief Judge
Americas
Ecuador commission to investigate prison violence - president
https://wtvbam.com/2021/12/16/ecuador-commission-to-investigate-prison-violence-president/
US - An influx of sick, elderly inmates in Florida prisons called a 'crisis'
Asia
Rights watchdog calls for decongesting India’s prisons
Israel's Justice Minister Says More Prisons Are the Solution to Overcrowding
Malaysia - Prisons Dept: Families allowed to visit inmates for Christmas from Dec 26 to 31
Thailand - Prison riot “under control” after hundreds of inmates lashed out over Covid-19 treatment
Thailand - Krabi prison dorm ablaze in second riot
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2233771/krabi-prison-dorm-ablaze-in-second-riot
Europe
England and Wales - Wing of Durham prison locked down due to escalating Covid cases
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/durham-prison-locked-down-covid-22484043
'Turkey’s prisons have turned into houses of death'
Oceania
Australia - WA jails are understaffed and under pressure, say WA prison officers
News 16 December
Global COVID Vaccination Rates for People in Prison Remain Far Too Low
https://filtermag.org/covid-vaccination-prisons/
Americas
US (North Carolina) - Prisoners on work release fear bringing in COVID from the outside, then spreading it inside
US - Tennessee prisons see overdoses surge
https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2021/12/16/tennessee-prisons-see-overdoses-surge
US - Alabama prisoner becomes 69th to die with COVID-19
https://www.alreporter.com/2021/12/15/alabama-prisoner-becomes-69th-to-die-with-covid-19/
US Virgin Islands - V.I. prison population cleared of COVID-19
Europe
Denmark to rent 300 prison cells in Kosovo to ease overcrowding
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/15/denmark-rent-300-prison-cells-kosovo-ease-overcrowding
England and Wales - Covid outbreak at sex offenders prison infects 100 inmates
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-59676911
Ireland sees one of highest rates in world for vaccinations in prisons
Inmates in Turkish prisons complain of lack of heating and inadequate amount of food
News 15 December
Americas
Canada - COVID-19 outbreak at Bordeaux prison infects 75, prompts new lockdown
Canada - Brockville, Ont. jail closes due to COVID-19 outbreak
https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/brockville-ont-jail-closes-due-to-covid-19-outbreak-1.5707071
US Prison Population Decreased 15% in 2020
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/12/14/us-prison-population-decreased-15-in-2020/
US (Connecticut) - CT’s strict vaccine mandate for medical staff doesn’t apply to prisons
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/CT-s-strict-vaccine-mandate-for-medical-staff-16700356.php
Asia
Philippines - QC jail congestion rate down to 55% from 1,000%- BJMP
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/15/qc-jail-congestion-rate-down-to-55-from-1000-bjmp/
Europe
England and Wales - Visits resume at Winchester prison following Covid outbreak
Italy - Two guards hurt in prison riot
Oceania
Australia - Guards walk off Mount Gambier correctional site over prisoner-made food, pay and conditions
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-15/prison-guards-walk-out-over-food-and-conditions/100701108
News 14 December
Americas
US (New York) - “People Need To Go Outside": Rikers Detainees Say Loss Of Rec Time Is Intensifying Jails Crisis
Asia
Pakistan - ‘Mysterious rise’ in inmates’ deaths witnessed in Lahore prison
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2333707/mysterious-rise-in-inmates-deaths-witnessed-in-lahore-prison
Philippines - Bureau of Corrections realizes jail decongestion program
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2021/12/14/bureau-of-corrections-realizes-jail-decongestion-program/
South Korea: 70000 inmates, officers at correction centres to get tested for Covid
Europe
England and Wales - Milton Keynes prison comes under fire again from inspectors
Scotland - Fife: Community payback hit by pandemic
https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/19781802.fife-community-payback-hit-pandemic/
Oceania
New Zealand - High time: Sharp increase in prison drug seizures
News 4-13 December
Africa
Dozens killed in fire at overcrowded Burundi prison
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/07/burundi-prison-gitega-fire-overcrowded
Zimbabwe - 2 000 Prisoners Test Positive For Covid-19
https://www.zimeye.net/2021/12/06/2-000-prisoners-test-positive-for-covid-19/
Americas
Prevalence of COVID-19 infection in the prison system in Espirito Santo/Brazil: persons deprived of liberty and justice workers
Canada - More than 120 off work at GTA jail after health unit bars unvaccinated staff
Canada - Court hears about pandemic conditions at Burnside jail as judge debates inmate's sentence
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/inmate-assault-trial-burnside-jail-covid-19-1.6276480
US - For incarcerated Americans, the pandemic chaos of April 2020 has never ended
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/12/prisons-covid-lockdown-hardships-us
US - Multiple COVID outbreaks reported at Maine correctional facilities
https://spectrumlocalnews.com/me/maine/news/2021/12/09/covid-hits-corrections-facilities
Asia
Bangladesh - Prisoners to be vaccinated
https://www.tbsnews.net/coronavirus-chronicle/covid-19-bangladesh/prisoners-be-vaccinated-339709
A glance at the conditions of women in Iranian prisons – women’s rights are human rights
https://women.ncr-iran.org/2021/12/09/the-conditions-of-women-iran-prisons/
Pakistan - Undue delays : K-P struggles with vaccine hesitancy in jails
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2333627/undue-delays-k-p-struggles-with-vaccine-hesitancy-in-jails
Philippines - 39,155 PDLs in BuCor jails vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/05/39155-pdls-in-bucor-jails-vaccinated/
Europe
COVID: How Europe's prisons have fared in the pandemic
https://www.dw.com/en/covid-how-europes-prisons-have-fared-in-the-pandemic/a-60006262
England and Wales - The double lockdown: How it feels to leave prison during a pandemic
https://metro.co.uk/2021/12/05/in-focus-how-it-feels-to-leave-prison-during-a-pandemic-15658488/
England and Wales - ‘Anger, fear and resentment’: prisoners speak out about lockdown
https://www.thejusticegap.com/anger-fear-and-resentment-prisoners-speak-out-about-lockdown/
England and Wales - Bullingdon Prison report criticises chronic overcrowding and safety standards
England and Wales - Prison service 'closely monitoring situation' at Leyland's HMP Wymott after Covid outbreak
England and Wales - HMP Winchester: What restrictions mean for inmates as Covid cases rise
https://www.hampshirelive.news/news/hampshire-news/hmp-winchester-what-restrictions-mean-6324378
Ireland - Covid outbreak at Cloverhill Prison leads to restrictions
https://www.echo.ie/covid-outbreak-at-cloverhill-prison-leads-to-restrictions/
Isle of Man - Covid: Virus outbreak prompts Jurby prison lockdown
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-59599105
Malta - Two inmates test positive for Covid
https://newsbook.com.mt/en/two-inmates-test-positive-for-covid/
Covid in Scotland: Courts backlog could take five years to be cleared up
Oceania
Australia - Casuarina Prison inmates riot amid union warning of shortages of up to 800 officers
Australia - NSW prisons are failing, new report claims
https://7news.com.au/news/crime/nsw-prisons-are-failing-new-report-claims-c-4895008
New Zealand - Turning Hawke's Bay prison youth unit into Covid-19 ward 'dreadful mistake'
News 3 December
Americas
Canada - Omicron variant of COVID-19 confirmed in Halton and Durham regions cases
Trinidad & Tobago - CCHR calls for independent monitoring of prisons
https://tt.loopnews.com/content/cchr-calls-independent-monitoring-prisons
US (Connecticut) - State Suspends In-Person Visits To Prison Due To High COVID Rates
US - Wyoming Prisons See 5th COVID-19 Death and a New Outbreak
https://k2radio.com/wyoming-prisons-see-5th-covid-19-death-and-a-new-outbreak/
Europe
France - COVID-19: Un Cluster Déclaré Dans Une Prison, Les Surveillants Pas Assez Protégés Selon Un Syndicat
News 2 December
Americas
Canada - National advocacy group joins inmate's lawsuit alleging substandard medical care in prisons
US - High number of deaths in Oregon state prisons
https://www.streetroots.org/news/2021/12/01/prisons-deaths
Asia
Philippines - 30,000 doses of COVID vaccines allotted to PDLs in BuCor jails
https://mb.com.ph/2021/12/02/30000-doses-of-covid-vaccines-allotted-to-pdls-in-bucor-jails/
Singapore - S'pore Prison Service launched new vehicle for infectious inmates 3 weeks before Covid-19 hit
Europe
England and Wales - What it's like to be a mother in prison during a pandemic
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/what-its-like-mother-prison-6255193
Ireland - Prison visits by children to see parents plummets
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40756920.html
Luxembourg – Schrassig prison: Sanitary measures reinforced as 45 infections reported
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1826645.html
Malta - Prisons are overcrowded, lacking rehabilitation efforts, audit finds
News 1 December
Americas
US - About 200 Massachusetts prison guards, Department of Correction employees suspended over vaccine mandate
US - NY jail and prison staff not complying with COVID mandates face suspension
US (Delaware) Del. DOC expands inmate visitation to children
https://www.wmdt.com/2021/11/del-doc-expands-inmate-visitation-to-children/
Europe
England and Wales - HMP Bullingdon report criticises overcrowding due to Covid
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-59478980
England and Wales – Thousands in prison on remand face second Xmas behind bars as court chaos deepens
France - Cluster à la prison d’Argentan : 72 cas positifs au Covid-19
Luxembourg - Covid-19 : les contaminations se multiplient à Schrassig
https://lequotidien.lu/police-justice/covid-19-les-contaminations-se-multiplient-a-schrassig/
News 30 November
Africa
Concerns over Covid-19 spread at notorious Egyptian prison
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/concerns-over-covid-19-spread-notorious-egyptian-prison
Americas
Ecuador's president extends state of emergency for prisons
US - Unnecessary and Complicated Transfers Are Spreading COVID in Federal Prisons
US - California now limits medical parole to those on ventilators
Asia
Philippines - 77% of 48,539 PDLs in BuCor jails vaccinated
https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/30/77-of-48539-pdls-in-bucor-jails-vaccinated/
Thailand - Joint letter on restrictions on prison visits and correspondence
Europe
Scottish prisons: Independent review calls for radical reform following deaths
Oceania
Australia - Canberra's COVID rapid antigen screening pilot introduced at jail, the Alexander Maconochie Centre
News 27 – 29 November
Americas
US - Prison visits in Alabama to restart after almost two-year pause
US - Appeals court blocks order requiring COVID vaccines for California prisons
Asia
Kazakh ‘torture’ jail using virtual reality to help prisoners feel joy
Malaysia - 63% of inmates minor drug offenders, says Azalina, in calling for prison reform
Philippines - Gov’t assures COVID vaccination of BuCor’s PDLs
https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/28/govt-assures-covid-vaccination-of-bucors-pdls/
Europe
Albania Closes Prison Hospital Criticized by Human Rights Organizations
England and Wales - Gym restrictions and 'goodybags' for HMP Liverpool inmates at height of covid
Turkey to lift ban on contact visitation in prisons
https://stockholmcf.org/turkey-to-lift-ban-on-contact-visitation-in-prisons/
News 26 November
Africa
Kenya - 43 inmates at Bungoma prison test positive for Covid-19
Americas
Cayman Islands - Lawyer: HMP Northward a ‘scary place right now’
https://caymannewsservice.com/2021/11/lawyer-hmp-northward-a-scary-place-right-now/
US - Inmate claims Utah prisons mismanaged pandemic care
https://www.fox13now.com/news/local-news/inmate-claims-utah-prisons-mismanaged-pandemic-care
“Abandoned and deprived”: the women trapped in Venezuela’s overcrowded prisons
https://www.stylist.co.uk/long-reads/women-venezuela-prisons-ana-maria-arevalo-gose/592838
Asia
Cambodia - GDP, ICRC talk sprucing up prison management
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/gdp-icrc-talk-sprucing-prison-management
Philippines - Majority of BJMP, BuCor inmates now vaxxed
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1520013/majority-of-bjmp-bucor-inmates-now-vaxxed
Europe
Belgium - Covid et surpopulation: les prisons sont de nouveau au bord de l'implosion
England and Wales - Winchester Prison Covid outbreak as cases for the area rise
https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/19741849.winchester-prison-covid-outbreak-cases-area-rise/
Ireland - Total of 277 cases of Covid-19 in prisons since pandemic began, Dáil told
Scotland - West Lothian prisoners slashed guard and sparked riot in violent Covid protest
https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/west-lothian-prisoners-slashed-guard-22275323
News 25 November
Prisons Are Communities Too
https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/prisons-are-communities-too
Asia
India - No psychiatrist visited Ranchi's Birsa central jail since 2020 lockdown
Philippines - Prelate says inmates should not be left behind amid Covid-19 vaccination
Europe
France - Orne. Nouveau foyer de contamination à la prison d’Argentan : 48 détenus testés positifs au Covid
Malta - Prison reform in coming weeks, Home Affairs Minister pledges
Experts of Committee Against Torture Ask Serbia about Overcrowding in Prisons
https://www.miragenews.com/experts-of-committee-against-torture-ask-serbia-680487/
Contact visits to resume in Turkey’s prisons after months
Oceania
Australia (Tasmania) - Prison overcrowding is seeing inmates share cells, toilets and showers, and that's not meant to be normal
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-25/tasmanian-prisons-overcrowding-report/100647178
News 24 November
Africa
Prison congestion: CSOs solicit stakeholders’ support to release detained Nigerians
Americas
US - About 90% of Federal Workers Got Vaccinated by Deadline
https://www.webmd.com/vaccines/covid-19-vaccine/news/20211123/federal-workers-vaccinated-deadline
US (New Mexico) - COVID still spreading in NM prisons despite nearly everyone getting the jab
https://news.yahoo.com/covid-still-spreading-nm-prisons-195027425.html
US - NYC Jail Officers At 67% COVID Vaccination Rate As Mandate Looms
https://patch.com/new-york/new-york-city/nyc-jail-officers-67-covid-vaccination-rate-mandate-looms
Europe
England and Wales - Essex prison described as rat-infested and piled with rubbish
https://planetradio.co.uk/free/uk/news/essex-prison-rubbish-hmp-chelmsford/
Surge in drug seizures at Scottish prisons
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59350968
Turkey - Heating system doesn’t work in İstanbul’s Silivri Prison despite freezing temperatures
Oceania
New Zealand - 'Retraumatised': Calls for prison double bunking to be axed as new data shows level of sex assault
News 23 November
Americas
Ecuador pardons some inmates to cut prison overcrowding after riots
US - Federal judge rejects California’s bid to postpone vaccination of prison staff
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Federal-judge-rejects-California-s-bid-to-16642593.php
Asia
Philippines - DOJ wants to include PDLs in 3-day national vaccination campaign
Europe
Belgium - Prison de St-Gilles: le bourgmestre prend un arrêté pour limiter la population carcérale
Ireland - Covid-19 in big Laois prison under control but community surge raises risk of more outbreaks
Luxembourg - Sanitary measures at Schrassig prison extended by two weeks
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1821647.html
Oceania
Australia - Queensland Parole Board applications backlog forcing prisoners to wait up to a year for decision
https://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/article.aspx?id=344020&cat=980&fm=newsmain%2Cnarts
News 20 – 22 November
Africa
Ghana - We’ll implement non-custodial sentences to decongest prisons – Bawumia
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1119965/well-implement-non-custodial-sentences-to-deconge.html
Americas
Canada - Thirty-Four Inmates and Three Staff Test Positive for COVID-19 in New Brunswick Prison
Cayman Islands - Relatives visiting prison must get tested or be fined $10,000
https://cayman.loopnews.com/content/relatives-visiting-prison-must-get-tested-or-be-fined-10000
US - COVID-19 outbreak at Vermont prison spreading
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/11/21/covid-19-outbreak-vermont-prisons/
US - More than 100 Massachusetts prison guards suspended after refusing COVID vaccine over the past month
US - North Carolina’s aging death row population faces looming health care crisis
https://theintercept.com/2021/11/20/north-carolina-death-row-health-care-crisis/
Asia
India - Delhi: With Covid-19 curbs eased, over 74,000 turn up to meet inmates in 10 months
Malaysia - Binding over better than jailing petty criminals, says lawyer
Philippines -DOJ chief seeks inclusion of 30,000 more inmates in three-day inoculation drive
Singapore - 66 inmates with Covid-19 housed in Selarang Park Complex quarantine centre
Europe
Ireland - Covid outbreaks continue to worsen in prison system
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/covid-outbreaks-continue-to-worsen-in-pri
Ireland - Inmate at prison hit by Covid-19 outbreak has trial delayed
Scotland - Overcrowded, under-funded: MSPs seek major justice system reform
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Waikeria Prison quarantine lifted after negative test result
News 19 November
Americas
Ecuador - ‘We are all suffering’: What’s going on inside Ecuador’s prisons?
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/11/18/we-are-all-suffering-whats-going-on-inside-ecuador-prisons
US - 76% of Nevada prison workers vaccinated against COVID-19 as mandate goes into effect
US (Massachusetts) - Prison depopulation request over COVID denied
https://masslawyersweekly.com/2021/11/18/prison-depopulation-request-over-covid-denied/
US (California) - Judge Rules CDCR Inflicted Cruel and Unusual Punishment on San Quentin Inmates During Massive COVID Outbreak
Europe
Greece - Thessaloniki prison on lockdown after Covid outbreak
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1172137/thessaloniki-prison-on-lockdown-after-covid-outbreak/
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: More than 50 Waikeria Prison staff isolating after Covid link
New Zealand - Covid-19: Vaccinated prisoners to have no choice if bunked with unvaxxed inmates
News 18 November
Africa
In Togo, prison visit ban keeps families apart
https://news.yahoo.com/togo-prison-visit-ban-keeps-092553254.html
Americas
US Virgin Islands - Second Outbreak: 14 Detainees Test Positive for COVID-19 at St. Croix Jail
Asia
In Myanmar’s Insein Prison, inmates shared bath water and were denied medical care
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/insein-11172021204102.html
Europe
England and Wales - Foston prison hit by outbreak of covid cases
https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/local-news/foston-prison-hit-outbreak-covid-6221595
Ireland - Prison service facing 'unprecedented challenge' as it manages three Covid-19 outbreaks
https://www.thejournal.ie/prisons-covid-5604913-Nov2021/
Ireland - Prison governor says prison service has entered 'silo mentality' amidst serious outbreaks of Covid-19
Luxembourg - 18 inmates test positive for Covid-19
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/1819096.html
News 17 November
Americas
Trinidad & Tobago - Prisons commissioner: No covid, chickenpox outbreaks in prison
https://newsday.co.tt/2021/11/16/prisons-commissioner-no-covid-chickenpox-outbreaks-in-prison/
US - COVID-19 cases rise at Mass. jails, prisons
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/11/16/covid-19-cases-rise-at-mass-jails-prisons/
US (Minnesota) - COVID-19 cases in St. Cloud correctional facility account for vast majority of systemwide cases
Europe
England and Wales - Covid cases confirmed at HMP Brinsford
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/black-country/covid-cases-confirmed-hmp-brinsford-22182136
Ireland - Covid in jails: Judge asks Prison Service rep to come to court after prisoner cannot attend trial amid ongoing outbreaks
News 11-16 November
Reimagine justice and end child detentions: UNICEF
https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/11/1105812
Africa
South Africa - Eastern Cape prison hunger strike over, says inspection authority
Americas
At least 68 dead in latest prison violence in Ecuador
https://www.ft.com/content/0375e422-68fa-4109-9f17-57846fdb28a6
US - State Prisons Released More People Before Covid-19 Than During It
https://newrepublic.com/article/164342/early-release-prison-covid
US - S.F.'s jails are leading California in COVID prevention. How are they doing it? No one knows
Asia
'Emotional Torture': Why Don't Indian Jails Give Inmates a Right to Phone Calls?
https://www.thequint.com/news/law/emotional-torture-indian-jails-inmates-no-right-to-phone-calls
Malaysia - Prisons Dept: ‘Drug cluster’ rehab programme under 12MP aims to reduce overcrowding
Philippines - BuCor: 4K inmates fully vaccinated; 13K partially vaxxed vs COVID-19
169 inmates are Covid-19 positive, including prisoners on death row: Singapore Prison Service
Europe
Croatia - Protests against COVID Certificates Outside Zagreb Prison, Split Court
England and Wales - ‘Unacceptable’: Violent assaults on children surge 70% at youth prison
England and Wales - Surge in self-harm incidents at scandal-hit women’s prison where newborn baby died
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/self-harm-prison-hmp-bronzefield-b1957994.html
Ireland - 30 Covid cases confirmed in country’s biggest jail as mass testing of staff and prisoners under way
Ireland - Covid outbreaks in prisons bring disruption to courts
https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2021/1115/1260115-coronavirus-courts/
Record Number Of Deaths At Isle Of Wight's Prison
https://www.iwradio.co.uk/news/isle-of-wight-news/record-number-of-deaths-at-isle-of-wights-prison/
Pandemic fallout: Convicts not eager to return to prison in Turkey
Turkey - Ban on contact visitation violates rights of inmates: Ankara Bar Association
https://stockholmcf.org/ban-on-contact-visitation-violates-rights-of-inmates-ankara-bar-association/
Oceania
Australia - ACT Supreme Court reduces sentences, cites COVID-19 prison woes
10 November
More than a million prisoners have been released during COVID-19, but it’s not enough
Africa
South Africa’s ‘Faulty’ Life Sentences are Catching Up – Prisons Crowded and Costing Citizens
South Africa - Irregular expenditure, violence and escapes increasing at SA prisons
South Africa - Vaccine hesitancy plaguing SA prison officials and inmates
https://www.citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/2906275/prison-officials-and-inmates-fear-side-effects/
Americas
Canada - Proof of vaccination to be mandatory for prison guards and visitors — but not for inmates
US - Philadelphia prisons to resume limited in-person visits
https://whyy.org/articles/philadelphia-prisons-to-resume-limited-in-person-visits/
Asia
Singapore - Several inmates and staff of Institution A1 at Changi Prison Complex test positive for Covid-19
Europe
England and Wales - Stocken Prison in Rutland is undergoing a gradual return to normality following strict covid regulations
https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/prison-report-highlights-impact-of-covid-9224818/
Ireland - Midlands Prison sees Covid-19 outbreak as 14 prisoners test positive
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/midlands-prison-sees-covid-19-25420296
News 9 November
Americas
US (Maine) - Justice delayed: York County Jail turns away would-be inmates amid COVID pressures
Asia
India - Tihar Jail Has 20k Inmates against 10k Capacity in 'Inhuman' Conditions; Parliament Committee in 'Shock'
Europe
Belgium - 24-hour strike in prisons in Brussels and Wallonia
https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/192894/24-hour-strike-in-prisons-in-brussels-and-wallonia/
England and Wales - Government accused of ‘secretly’ rolling out pepper spray in prisons during pandemic
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/pava-pepper-spray-prisons-covid-b1953523.html
England and Wales - Justice Secretary Dominic Raab doesn't know how long it will take to reduce COVID court case backlog
England and Wales - 'Super courtroom' opens to address 'significant' backlog of over 60,000 crown court cases
Ireland - Prison Services reveal Covid-19 vaccine rates in Portlaoise and other jails
Luxembourg - Prison tightens pandemic restrictions, 100 in quarantine
https://delano.lu/article/prison-tightens-pandemic-restr
Scotland - Shocking condition of Greenock Prison highlighted in national report
Spain - Anti-torture Committee publishes 2020 visit report on police and prisons in Spain
News 6-8 November
Americas
Canada - 18 cases associated with COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich jail, Island Health says
Asia
Thailand - 625 inmates infected with Covid-19 at two Korat prisons
Europe
Netherlands - 700 prisoners in isolation after coronavirus outbreak in Zaanstad penitentiary
https://nltimes.nl/2021/11/07/700-prisoners-isolation-coronavirus-outbreak-zaanstad-penitentiary
Scotland - Dumfries Prison staff praised for handling of two coronavirus outbreaks
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/dumfries-prison-staff-praised-handling-25379587
Scotland - Scotland’s courts to continue virtual hearings into 2022
https://www.thenational.scot/news/19700939.scotlands-courts-continue-virtual-hearings-2022/
Oceania
Australia - Prison numbers have fallen during the COVID pandemic, but not for First Nations people
New Zealand - Prison staff miss Covid deadline
https://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/280582-live-updates-prison-staff-miss-covid-deadline.html
News 5 November
Americas
Cayman Islands - Full prison struggles with high COVID case load
https://caymannewsservice.com/2021/11/full-prison-struggles-with-high-covid-case-load/
US (California) - Newsom joins corrections department in appealing prison vaccine mandate
US (Minnesota) - State adjusts COVID-19 protocols for prison employees
https://www.keyc.com/2021/11/04/state-adjusts-covid-19-protocols-prison-employees/
US (Nevada) - Hundreds of prison staff submitted religious exemptions ahead of vaccination deadline
Asia
Maldives - Male' Prison over capacity by 33 percent
Europe
Belgium - Surpopulation, manque de personnel et recrudescence du covid : profond malaise à la prison de Saint-Gilles
Three of Scotland’s most violent prisoners killed by covid
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/three-scotlands-most-violent-prisoners-25381612
Oceania
Australia - NSW prisons COVID-19 outbreak infected hundreds
https://canberraweekly.com.au/nsw-prisons-covid-19-outbreak-infected-hundreds/
News 4 November
Americas
Canada - Island Health declares COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich jail
US (New Mexico) - Prison population continues statewide decline
https://www.lascrucesbulletin.com/stories/prison-population-continues-statewide-decline,8742
US (California) - Amid COVID-19 outbreak in Sacramento jails, advocates demand better care, emergency releases
Europe
Covid Scotland: Courts backlog will take 'multiple years' to clear warns Lord Advocate
Oceania
Australia - NSW prison population down during COVID-19
https://www.mandurahmail.com.au/story/7496793/nsw-prison-population-down-during-covid-19/
New Zealand - Visitors To Prisons Required To Be Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Before 9 December
News 3 November
Americas
US - COVID-19 inmate cases soar at North Dakota state prison
https://kfgo.com/2021/11/02/covid-19-inmate-cases-soar-at-north-dakota-state-prison/
US - Few Minnesota Counties Require COVID Vaccines for Prison Workers
https://www.bollyinside.com/news/few-minnesota-counties-require-covid-vaccines-for-prison-workers
US - Nebraska Corrections director says prisons are understaffed, overpopulated
Asia
India - Covid 19 Not A Valid Ground For Seeking Further Extension Of Parole Leave: Karnataka HC
India - Delhi: A year on, Diwali is back for Tihar inmates
Europe
England and Wales - Record number of deaths at HMP The Verne
https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/dorset/news/record-number-deaths-hmp-the-verne/
Northern Ireland - Funding plea for jail mental healthcare after 460 self-harm incidents this year
News 2 November
Americas
US - Union for Federal Prison Workers Sues Over Covid Vaccine Mandate
US - Hawaiʻi federal prison workers protest staffing shortages, lack of COVID-19 testing option
Europe
England and Wales - Dour report finds HMP Hull prisoners living in 'intolerable' conditions
https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/dour-report-finds-hmp-hull-6141920
Ireland - Covid certs won't be needed for prison visits for now, but review underway
https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40734387.html
Prison union warns psychoactive drugs have reached 'very dangerous level' as Scots staff battle chaos behind bars
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/prison-union-warns-psychoactive-drugs-25349968
Scotland must reduce prisoner numbers, says watchdog
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-59133556
Oceania
New Zealand - Auckland inmates among positive cases
https://www.looppng.com/coronavirus/auckland-inmates-among-positive-cases-106221
News 30 October – 1 November
Americas
Argentina - After the freedoms anticipated by the Covid, the Buenos Aires prisons were filled again and already exceed the levels of the pre-pandemic
Bahamas - Request For Independent Review Of Prison Issues
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2021/oct/29/request-independent-review-prison-issues/
Canada - Ontario to spend $72 million to tackle courts backlog, hire court staff
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-court-backlog-1.6229951
US prisons face staff shortages as officers quit amid COVID
Asia
Malaysia - Deepavali: Families allowed to meet inmates - Prisons Dept
https://www.thesundaily.my/local/deepavali-families-allowed-to-meet-inmates-prisons-dept-CK8509235
Europe
Albania – Drenovë, Over 10 Prisoners Infected with Covid-19
https://albaniandailynews.com/news/drenov-over-10-prisoners-infected-with-covid-19
France - Béziers. Covid : la prison identifiée comme cluster, plus de 50 cas confirmés
News 29 October
Americas
US - Virginia’s prison population fell by thousands during the pandemic. Will it stay down?
US - Despite outbreaks at Maine prisons and jails, workers aren’t required get vaccinated
Asia
India - After hunger strike, prisoners in Bihar allowed to meet kin, get outside food
Decongesting Philippine Prisons
https://www.panaynews.net/decongesting-philippine-prisons/
Europe
Improving health in prisons: new WHO Prison Health Framework can improve data quality
England and Wales - Self-harm among women and children in UK prisons rises to record levels
England and Wales - Violent and rotting Winchester prison fails inmates, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-59087024
Oceania
Australia - Report criticises rising prison population
https://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/7489162/report-criticises-rising-prison-population/
News 28 October
Africa
‘Stuck in limbo’: endless wait for justice for those in Nigeria’s prisons
Americas
St Lucia - Visits suspended at Bordelais due to COVID outbreak
https://stlucia.loopnews.com/content/visits-suspended-bordelais-due-covid-outbreak
US - Some states are cloaking prison COVID data
https://gcn.com/articles/2021/10/27/prison-covid-data-transparency.aspx?m=1
US - DOJ Will Revise Trump-Era Home Release Limit, Garland Says
US (California) - Inmates must be vaccinated to see visitors in state prison, CDCR says
US (Arizona) - Prison officials: More than 80% of state inmates vaccinated
https://www.kold.com/2021/10/27/prison-officials-more-than-80-state-inmates-vaccinated/
US - Lawsuits and protests: Texas county jails are on the brink during the pandemic
Asia
Cambodia - Courts urged to expedite clearing backlog to reduce prison overcrowding
In China, COVID-19 Had an Unlikely Side Effect: Bail Reform
https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1008812/in-china%2C-covid-19-had-an-unlikely-side-effect-bail-reform
Europe
Cyprus - Court cases postponed due to Covid-19
https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/court-cases-postponed-due-to-covid-19/
Turkey - ‘Pandemic restrictions’ still in place in prisons
https://m.bianet.org/english/human-rights/252474-pandemic-restrictions-still-in-place-in-prisons
News 27 October
Africa
Uganda - 18 percent prison inmates vaccinated against Covid-19
https://www.independent.co.ug/18-percent-prison-inmates-vaccinated-against-covid-19/
Americas
US - Missouri prisons urged to improve COVID protocols
US (Washington DC) - After year of isolation, Prison Scholars return to classrooms
https://georgetownvoice.com/2021/10/26/prison-scholars-return-to-class/
US - Some unvaccinated California correctional officers could face discipline under new order
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article255300371.html
Asia
Malaysia - Prisons Dept allows visitations in states under Phase 4 NRP
Malaysia -Zero Covid-19 cases in Penang Remand Prison since September
Europe
England and Wales - Deal reached to end long running Covid safety dispute at 49 prisons
News 26 October
Americas
US - COVID-19 rates higher in Missouri counties with large prison populations, study says
Asia
India - Prisoners ordered to return to 'Covid-free' jails in Delhi
Thailand - Nakhon Si Thammarat widens lockdowns as prison infections rise
Europe
Armenian Prison Healthcare Staff Trained on Prevention and Control of Health Care-Associated Infections
News 23 – 25 October
Africa
Rwanda - Human Right Commission Reports An Issue Of Prisons Congestion Again
https://www.ktpress.rw/2021/10/human-right-commission-reports-an-issue-of-prisons-congestion-again/
Uganda - Prisons cries out for Covid-19 vaccines
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/prisons-cries-out-for-covid-19-vaccines-3592386
Americas
Jamaica - 74 COVID-positive cases among inmates at ‘Spanish Town prison’
https://jamaica.loopnews.com/content/74-covid-positive-cases-among-inmates-spanish-town-prison
St Lucia - Another COVID outbreak at Bordelais: 27 new cases at prison
https://stlucia.loopnews.com/content/another-covid-outbreak-bordelais-27-new-cases-prison
US - When Prison Guards Refuse Vaccines, Incarcerated People Pay the Price
https://truthout.org/articles/when-prison-guards-refuse-vaccines-incarcerated-people-pay-the-price/
US (Connecticut) - Prison workers top list of those not complying with mandate
US (North Carolina) - COVID outbreaks continue in NC jails, which are exempt from state vaccine mandate
US - Nevada inmates’ health conditions amid pandemic spur call for independent probe
https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/oct/24/nevada-inmates-health-conditions-pandemic-probe/
Asia
India - Over 17,000 Covid vaccine doses given to Delhi prison inmates
Philippines - BJMP records low COVID jail cases, high PDL vax numbers in past 6 months
Philippines - BuCor vows to have all PDLs, workers vaccinated vs COVID
https://mb.com.ph/2021/10/25/bucor-vows-to-have-all-pdls-workers-vaccinated-vs-covid/
Philippines - General Santos detainees crammed in cells while awaiting COVID-19 tests
Thailand - Covid-19 in prison: outbreaks from overcrowding now subsiding
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/covid-19-in-prison-outbreaks-from-overcrowding-now-subsiding
Europe
Prison overcrowding report discussed with key stakeholders in Greece
Scotland - Covid: 200 inmates isolating at Perth Prison after 30 test positive
https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/perth-kinross/2680602/covid-200-inmates-isolating-perth-prison/
Two wings in Spanish prison go into lockdown due to major COVID-19 outbreak
Oceania
Australia - COVID-19 inquiry ordered into Sydney jail
https://www.northernbeachesreview.com.au/story/7481318/covid-19-inquiry-ordered-into-sydney-jail/
New Zealand - Covid-19: Corrections accused of subterfuge over staff vaccine mandate
News 22 October
Americas
US - Health care in Illinois prisons is deficient: Report
US (Washington) - Citing COVID-19 concerns, Gov. Inslee halts jail-to-prison transfers
https://www.ncwlife.com/citing-covid-19-concerns-gov-inslee-halts-jail-to-prison-transfers/
US (New York) - As COVID Rages On Rikers, Staffing Crisis Delays Vaccine Mandate For Jail Staff
https://gothamist.com/news/covid-rages-rikers-staffing-crisis-delays-vaccine-mandate-jail-staff
US - Visitations at Mississippi prisons to resume November 1
https://www.wlbt.com/2021/10/21/visitations-mississippi-prisons-resume-november-1/
Europe
France - Béziers : encore plus de malades du Covid à la prison du Gasquinoy
Prison Revolts in Russia Growing in Number, Size and Impact
https://jamestown.org/program/prison-revolts-in-russia-growing-in-number-size-and-impact/
News 21 October
Africa
Nigeria - COVID-19: Grant clemency to prison inmates now, lawyer begs Okowa
https://www.sunnewsonline.com/covid-19-grant-clemency-to-prison-inmates-now-lawyer-begs-okowa/
Americas
Canada - Group says prolonged use of lockdowns, restrictive movement routines in prisons unconstitutional
Canada - More than 1,000 inmates locked in their cells amid staffing shortage at Montreal's Bordeaux prison
US (California) - Appeals court tosses order aimed at protecting immigration detainees from COVID-19
US (New York) - State prisons to offer food incentives for inmates who get vaccinated; CO union pushes back
https://news.yahoo.com/state-prisons-offer-food-incentives-120300043.html
Asia
Cambodia - Covid vaccinations for detainees near 100%
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/covid-vaccinations-detainees-near-100
Europe
Cyprus - MPs ponder electronic bracelets to alleviate prison overcrowding
https://cyprus-mail.com/2021/10/20/mps-ponder-electronic-bracelets-to-alleviate-prison-overcrowding/
Scotland - Fife terror trial halted after another Covid outbreak at Perth Prison
Oceania
Australia (ACT) - Government resists compulsory jabs for prison officers
https://citynews.com.au/2021/government-resists-compulsory-jabs-for-prison-officers/
News 20 October
Americas
US - The policy lessons learned from the criminal justice system response to COVID-19
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1745-9133.12562
US - Democrats in Congress press Biden to extend COVID-related prisoner releases
Asia
Kuwait to pardon more prisoners next year amid overcrowding
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/kuwait-pardon-more-prisoners-next-year-amid-overcrowding
Europe
England and Wales - Prisoners three times as likely to miss hospital appointments with no notice than general public, says report
Oceania
New Zealand - Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Corrections National Commissioner welcomes staff vaccine mandate
News 19 October
Americas
Canada - Sudbury Jail closing temporarily due to COVID-19 outbreak
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/sudbury-jail-covid-outbreak-1.6215096
US - How States Shunted Prisoners Aside in Vaccine Rollout
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/18/how-states-shunted-prisoners-aside-in-vaccine-rollout/
US - Covid-19 Cases Increase Seven-Fold in Wyoming Prison System
Asia
India - Jail inmates can now talk to relatives over phone
https://www.orissapost.com/jail-inmates-can-now-talk-to-relatives-over-phone/
India - 20 jail inmates test Covid positive in Thane
Philippines - 31.34% of 123,848 inmates in BJMP facilities with complete doses vs COVID-19
News 16 – 18 October
Africa
Kenya - Kapsabet GK Prison Records 100pc Vaccination
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/kapsabet-gk-prison-records-100pc-vaccination/
COVID-19: 92% of Morocco’s Prison Population are Fully Vaccinated
Americas
US - In face of violent crime and COVID trauma, nation can't fall into overincarceration trap
US - Inmates are more vaccinated against COVID-19 than guards at nearly every prison in California
US - Louisiana Will Restart Prison Visits With Covid Precautions
US (Washington) - I'm in prison and I just had my first contact visit in 500 days. To reduce recidivism, prisons need to prioritize human contact.
https://news.yahoo.com/im-prison-just-had-first-120200384.html
US (Florida) - Anxiety runs high among some incarcerated people as regular Covid testing in short supply
US (Tennessee) - COVID rates at CoreCivic prisons soar above rates at state-run facilities
Asia
Only 10% of Philippine convicts have received COVID-19 vaccines
Philippines - Davao Prison sets up isolation facility for COVID, other infectious diseases
Oceania
Australia - Rapid testing, jabs and jury bubbles: How NSW courts are reopening safely
News 15 October
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t Lauds Uptake Of Covid-19 Jabs In Prisons
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/ministry-commends-uptake-of-covid-19-jabs-in-prisons/
Americas
US - How COVID-19 affected death row prisoners ahead of Alabama execution scheduled this month
US - Nearly 40 percent of Mass. prison guards still haven’t complied with the state’s vaccine mandate
https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2021/10/14/massachusetts-prison-guard-vaccine-mandate/
Europe
England and Wales - Justice Secretary Dominic Raab can't say when court backlog will be cleared
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-58910799
England and Wales - Black mental health crisis in prisons
https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/2021/10/14/black-mental-health-crisis-in-prisons/
Turkey - İzmir F-type prison imposing extra restrictions on inmates despite new regulation
Oceania
New Zealand - The spectre of Covid-19 in prisons, and what it means for Māori
https://thespinoff.co.nz/atea/15-10-2021/why-covid-19-in-prisons-matters-for-maori/
News 14 October
Americas
US - Incarcerated Describe COVID Prison Practices as Torture
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/13/incarcerated-describe-covid-prison-practices-as-torture/
US - I’ve Spent 35 Years in Prison. I Live Each Day Fearing Another Wave of COVID.
US - Why are incarcerated people, the only Americans with guaranteed health care, dying of COVID-19 faster than the general public? | Opinion
US - California judge blocks COVID-19 vaccine order for correctional officers
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state-worker/article254990142.html
US - As the deadline nears, Oregon Department of Corrections employees are 50% vaccinated
Europe
England and Wales - STC Still Locking Children In Cells For 23 Hours A Day, Warn Inspectors
News 13 October
Africa
Kenya - Gov’t Intensifies Covid-19 Vaccination In Prisons
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/govt-intensifies-covid-19-vaccination-in-prisons/
Kenya - Inmates To Wait Longer To Receive Visitors
https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/inmates-to-wait-longer-to-receive-visitors/
Americas
US - Despite being told otherwise, thousands of convicts sent home for COVID-19 will have to return to prison
US - Texas Prison Staff COVID-19 Death Toll Spikes
https://thecrimereport.org/2021/10/12/texas-prison-staff-covid-19-death-toll-spikes/
US - Supreme Court: No More Expedited Releases For Hawaii Inmates
https://www.civilbeat.org/2021/10/supreme-court-no-more-expedited-releases-for-hawaii-inmates/
Europe
Scotland - Covid: Around 40 prisoners self-isolating at Perth Prison as a ‘precautionary measure’
Oceania
Australia - Lockdown in Hunter Valley maximum security prison after virus outbreak
News 12 October
Americas
Canada - Most Alberta offenders sentenced to weekends in jail, now serving at home due to pandemic
Europe
England and Wales - Children locked in rooms at youth prison up to 23 hours a day – report
England and Wales - Self harm at Peterborough prison drops during lockdown - despite ‘inhumane’ conditions jail forced to impose
England and Wales - Inside 'shabby' HMP Deerbolt - where prisoners wear bin bags instead of coats
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/inside-shabby-hmp-deerbolt-prisoners-21823780
Oceania
New Zealand - People In Prison Must Be Protected From COVID-19
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2110/S00093/people-in-prison-must-be-protected-from-covid-19.htm
News 9-11 October
Americas
Bermuda - Courts reduce services because of Covid-19
Guyana - COVID-19: About half of prison population vaccinated
https://newsroom.gy/2021/10/08/covid-19-about-half-of-prison-population-vaccinated/
Panama - Outbreak of covid-19 in women's prisons
https://menafn.com/1102946430/Outbreak-of-covid-19-in-womens-prisons&source=30
US - Vaccination rates rise at Washington Department of Corrections, other agencies in response to COVID-19 mandate
Asia
Cambodia - CHRC says NGOs call to release prisoners will affect public order
Europe
Croatia - 23 Prisoners at Zagreb's Remetinec Prison Infected, 110 Self-Isolating
Only valid Covid-19 certificates for prison guards in Latvia
https://bnn-news.com/only-valid-covid-19-certificates-for-prison-guards-in-latvia-228888
Spain – Mass Covid outbreak in Cordoba prison
https://murciatoday.com/mass-covid-outbreak-in-cordoba-prison-_1660987-a.html
Turkey - COVID-19 outbreak reported at Antalya prisons
https://turkeypurge.com/covid-19-outbreak-reported-at-antalya-prisons
Oceania
Australia - Victorian courts consider only allowing jurors who are fully vaccinated
New Zealand - Three Mt Eden prison Covid cases, one transferred to hospital
News 8 October
Africa
Kenya - 30,000 inmates get Covid vaccine in plan to resume visitation
Liberia: ‘Detainees are Five Times More at Risk of Contracting COVID-19’ — EU Head of Delegation Cautions Inmates to Get Vaccinated
Americas
US - Gov. Wolf Announces Pennsylvania Prison Population Reaches 20-Year Low
US (Texas) - Prison staff death toll spikes after state relaxes coronavirus precautions behind bars
Europe
England and Wales - How the pandemic is hurting women leaving prison
https://www.huckmag.com/perspectives/how-the-pandemic-is-hurting-women-leaving-prison/
Northern Ireland - Inmates in crisis held in units designed for solitary confinement
News 7 October
Africa
More Than 50 Percent Of Prisoners In Kenya Vaccinated Against COVID-19
Americas
US - Federal Bureau Of Prisons Staff 63% Vaccinated But Union Digging In Heels On Mandate
US Prisons Were Covid Hothouses During Pandemic First Wave
US - New York’s Already Low Prison Vaccinations Plateau Through The Summer
https://wskg.org/news/new-yorks-already-low-prison-vaccinations-plateau-through-the-summer/
US (California) - Public Health Sees COVID-19 Outbreaks at Correctional Facilities
https://lasentinel.net/public-health-sees-covid-19-outbreaks-at-correctional-facilities.html
Asia
Laos - Forty Lao Prisoners Found Infected With COVID-19
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/prisoners-10062021192736.html
Philippines - Late submission of inmates’ prison records slowing down efforts to decongest jails
Europe
England and Wales - Inspection finds ‘high levels of violence’ plaguing Staffordshire prison
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/-staffy-prison-violence
News 6 October
Americas
Bahamas - Another Suspected Covid Case At Prison
http://www.tribune242.com/news/2021/oct/05/another-suspected-covid-case-prison/
US - COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate C