The second SEE NPM Network Meeting, under the Greek chairmanship, took place on November 30th and December 1st 2023 at the premises of the European Public Law Organization (EPLO).
The agenda of the meeting focused on ‘Existing prison education policies and practices, vocational training and skills development as inmates’ rights and as means to support the rehabilitation and reintegration into society.’
Following a fruitful two—day meeting, the SEE Network adopted unanimously the conclusions document, which is available on the SEE NPM Network site.
At the end of the meeting, the members discussed key aspects and exchanged know-how and experience regarding education, vocational training and skills development, when conducting an on-site prison inspection. The participants agreed that the experts should interview all stakeholders. The collection of all relevant data includes the inspection of the actual conditions. No visit shall be done without cross-checks. Obstacles have to be focused as well. To find out more about their needs prisoners should be encouraged to file complaints. Follow up visits help to clarify which improvements were made. Last not least it is important to collect data on the after-release process.
Finally, we announce that Bulgaria will be taking over the next NPM Network Meeting chairmanship.