From petty bribery to large-scale misappropriation of funds, corruption is rife throughout the criminal justice process in many countries and has serious implications both for the human rights of detainees and the efficient administration of justice.
Corruption occurs in police stations, prosecutors’ offices, the judiciary and in prisons. Corruption might be a reason why a person is detained in the first place. It might also affect their ability to access due process, access the most basic rights and services in detention and even their ability to stay safe from harm. Prisons are high-risk environments for corruption, especially where there is a lack of transparency and public oversight.
Where there are high levels of corruption, it is also more likely that a group or groups of prisoners will be able to exert power over their peers or prison authorities. The most extreme example of self-government is where leaders of organised crime groups or ‘gangs’ control entire prison facilities.
Poor detention standards can exacerbate corruption, where corrupt prison officers may extort money from inmates with greater financial means in exchange for greater privileges, services or benefits. This is particularly likely in contexts where prison staff are not adequately paid or there is a shortage of staff. Addressing pay and working conditions can be an effective way to tackle corruption in prisons.
