Essex paper 3: Initial guidance on the interpretation and implementation of the Nelson Mandela Rules

This guidance on the revised UN Nelson Mandela Rules is ‎based on the deliberations of a meeting of experts – known informally as the ‘Essex expert group’ – organised by Penal Reform International and the Human Rights Centre at the University of Essex in Colchester, UK, on 7-8 April 2016.

The paper consists of six chapters covering:

1. Dignity
2. Prison management
3. Contact with the outside world
4. Health-care
5. Restrictions, discipline and sanctions
6. Incident management

Penal Reform International would like to acknowledge the contribution of our dear colleague, the late Sir Nigel Rodley to the Essex group and this paper. Our tribute to Nigel can be read here.

For more information on the Nelson Mandela Rules download an illustrated Short Guide or this animated introduction (both available in multiple languages).