Promoting women’s health in prisons in North-West Russia

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this article, the authors present findings from a study of the challenges for improving and promoting women’s health in prison settings in North-West Russia. They examine the findings in the light of their own experience in the region and put forward suggestions for overcoming obstacles to reform and progress. These add new knowledge to help fill the gap in applied studies relating to women’s health in prisons and particularly in the Russian Federation and FSU countries. Work was conducted in Kaliningrad, Tver and St. Petersburg cities and oblasts with Ministry officials, prison staff, prisoners and Russian NGOs. It involved a mix of methods including study visits to selected sites and government and non-government organisations, reviews of policy documents and statistical sources, and discussions with key informants. Challenges found include particular issues posed for women and their health and well-being, shortage of links between prison and civilian sector services, lack of unified health services, and lack of employment opportunities and other supports on release. International partnership initiatives are required to bring about a transformation in the health and welfare outcomes of the prisoners in North-West Russia, and in the healthcare provided within prison settings. Gendered policies and practices remain to be developed at regional and local levels. The need to turn Russian prisons in the North-West into Health Promoting Prisons, where human rights are respected and gender issues recognised, is now paramount.