“Improving Human Rights in Bulgarian Prisons”

Project

“Improving Human Rights in Bulgarian Prisons”

The project is implemented by Penal Reform International

Project duration:

01.05.2004 - 30.04.2005

Partners:

General Directorate “Execution of Sentences” to the Ministry of Justice; Regional Fund - IGA; Penitentiaries in Stara Zagora, Pazardjik, Vratza and Sofia;

Sources of funding:

FCO – Global Opportunity Fund

Main goal:

To contribute towards the penal reform in Bulgaria by assisting with the preparation for release and social re-integration of detainees.

Objectives:

- Promoting the human rights of the detainees by creating a fairer and more humane justice system. - The development of special programmes to address the needs of prisoners serving long sentences, including violent prisoners, recidivists and drug users. - Contribute to establishing safer communities through the reduction of recidivism and the social integration of former prisoners.

Expected results:

- A group of 60 trainers equipped to develop and implement programmes for special categories of detainees and to train others to implement such programmes, - 4 programmes addressing the special groups of inmates, - Recommendations for programmes addressing these needs and for laws supporting the development of programmes contributing to the social reintegration of offenders, - Network of Public Authorities and NGOs working with offenders.