Eastern Europe

PRI has been involved in many projects aimed at improving health conditions for prisoners with mental health problems and tuberculosis in Eastern Europe. We have also worked to ensure the equal treatment of Roma people. PRI worked with institutionalised children and young people who were at risk of drug addiction within the justice system. Activities were primarily focused on supporting local NGOs in the delivery of small scale projects and providing training to local staff.

PRI worked in the region to promote international and European human rights standards through the provision of training to magistrates, prison and probation staff. PRI also prompted the alternative to detention in order to reduce prison overcrowding and to improve prison conditions. Pilot projects were undertaken with local partners to support the reintegration of offenders from vulnerable groups following release from prison. Activities were assisted by the delivery of training, advocacy and awareness raising campaigns.

Our working methods draw on extensive consultation with key stakeholders in order to ensure the effectiveness and long-term viability of reform efforts. To this end, PRI worked in partnership with prison administrations, local authorities, and NGOs. PRI also gained expertise from working with different countries within the region that are facing or have faced similar challenges.