Modernization of the penitentiary system in Bulgaria

A strategic goal of the Updated Strategy for reform of the Judiciary(US) is the improvement of the penitentiary system(PS) in Bulgaria. The Rodmap to the US includes elaboration of a Strategy for development of the PS till 2025. The only document in this direction was the Concept for GDES'development, approved by the Minister of Justice,May 2014. The listed priorities don't include concrete measures for implementation. Budget shortennings are mostly visible in the facilities within the PS. Social, educational/training activities are underdeveloped as a tool for understanding the execution of punishment and reintegration. The staff of the places for deprivation of liberty(PDL) experience huge challenges due the criminogenic environment and therefore qualitative preparation and specific knowledge/skills are needed. Having in mind recent trends related to the fight against terrorism/radicalization and the unresolved management problems in the PDL, the elaboration of a new document is required based on the Concept for GDES'development and the functional analysis of GDES, financed by OPAC. For the implemenation of the Act for execution of sentences and the implementation of the electronic monitoring(EM)of offenders is necessary to buy the relevant equipment. For the fulfillment of the project a system for EM will be purchased, a training for the staff will be conducted. The project implementation complies with the provisions in the national legislation and the recommendations of the European rules for non-custodial measures of the Council of the Ministers to the CoE and Recommendation CM/Rec (2014)4 of the CM reg.the EM as a tool for rehabilitation, limiting of recidivism and improvement the society's safety.Within the project will be conducted an assessment of the Concept for GDES'development from May 2014, a Strategy for the development of GDES will be elaborated and a system for EM will be implemented.

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