New York: The 10th anniversary of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Nelson Mandela Rules, and the 15th anniversary of the Bangkok Rules for Women Prisoners, highlight a significant milestone in global penal reform efforts. This double anniversary serves not only as a celebration but as a call for the international community to renew its commitment to transforming penal systems from mere punitive institutions to centers of justice and rehabilitation.

According to EMM, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is active in over 50 Member States, spearheading initiatives to reform prison and penal systems. These efforts aim to shift the focus from punishment to rehabilitation, showcasing the transformative power of effective penal reform. Some of the most compelling stories come from ten countries that illustrate these changes.

In Nigeria, a unique chess program in prisons has become a tool for inmates to engage their minds and find intellectual freedom. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, a reading-for-release initiative has provided prisoners like Dave with a mental escape and a sense of freedom through literature.

In Mexico, prisoners have been trained in climate-resistant water harvesting techniques, offering them new skills for future employment. Matías, a participant, expressed optimism about proving his qualifications to future employers. Similarly, in Malaysia, vocational training for extremist prisoners has helped individuals like Abdullah find positivity and purpose during incarceration.

Thailand’s prisons have embraced the arts with a concert initiative that provides inmates the opportunity to perform music, fostering a sense of pride and reducing aggression. Khun Panya, a father of a participating prisoner, shared his pride in his son’s transformation.

In Sri Lanka, a food security and vocational training program has turned agriculture into a newfound passion for inmates like Kasun, who now envision a future of self-sustainability upon release. Ghana has focused on training prison officers like Superintendent Bright Kwame Dogbatse in the Nelson Mandela Rules, aiming to prevent recidivism and aid societal reintegration.

Lebanon’s vocational training programs have empowered prisoners like Lama to advocate for second chances and personal transformation. In Tajikistan, educational initiatives have opened new horizons for inmates such as Jumaboy, who discovered a love for reading and self-education.

Finally, in Kazakhstan, paid work opportunities in prisons have allowed inmates to support themselves and their families. A prisoner, skilled in welding, shared his sense of fulfillment and happiness in contributing to his family’s well-being.

These stories underscore the potential for transformation within prison walls, reminding the global community of the importance of continued efforts toward comprehensive penal reform.