UNODC holds training workshop on prison management and the prevention of radicalization to violence for 25 prison officers

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has conducted a three-day introductory training workshop on prison management and the prevention of radicalization to violence for 25 selected prison officers from the five northern regions of Ghana. These regions are a priority due to their proximity to the Sahel region and other factors making them susceptible to the threat of violent extremism and terrorism.

The training program seeks to address issues related to the purpose of a prison sentence per international standards and norms, such as the Nelson Mandela Rules, and how to achieve a successful rehabilitation and to ensure that prisons do not become places of radicalization to violence.

The workshop was part of NORPREVSEC, an Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies’ (FIIAPP) project, financed by the European Union, and delivered by UNODC in collaboration with the Counter Terrorism Fusion Center of the Ministry of National Security of Ghana, Interpol and the Ghana Prisons Service (GPS).

The training focused on building the capacity of trainees to deliver evidence-based measures to manage violent extremist prisoners and prevent radicalization to violence. Presentations and interactive exercises were delivered by a range of expert trainers from Ghana, Senegal, Spain, and Germany. One key subject covered was the development and implementation of a tailored classification procedure for prisoners, based on individuals’ risks and needs. Trainees were keen to take this forward. Also covered were the topics of prison intelligence; dynamic security and targeted rehabilitation interventions. All are indispensable elements for ensuring safety and security in prisons. Good and human-rights compliant prison management for all prisoners provides the essential foundation for targeted work to prevent radicalization to violence and reducing re-offending among violent extremist prisoners.

The representatives from the GPS expressed their gratitude for the successful training and stressed that more capacity building initiatives are desired in the future. It was agreed  that work will continue as part of UNODC’s project ‘Strengthening the compliance of the GPS with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules)’, which is financed by the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).