Abstract
The contribution analyses the current Italian prison system, which has been called upon on to resolve its structural problems. The Council of Europe, in fact, in 2013 condemned Italy for inhuman treatment in its prisons. The principal accusation concerns the problem of overcrowding. The country has responded with solutions such as the application of the open system, which provides cells solely for overnight stays, and dynamic monitoring, an effective system for ensuring order in the institutions. These initiatives aim to promote re-educational activities and the social re-integration of prisoners. In addition, Italian institutions have made greater use of alternatives to custodial penalties in order to tackle overcrowding and to provide more opportunities for social re-integration.This contribution focuses on the need to increase prisoners’ employment opportunities. In fact, Italy seems to have neglected this area, which is fundamental for re-integration into the community sphere.
Highlights
The Italian prison system and the work of its operators have been the subject of numerous studies and debates that have analyzed them through different perspectives, such as political, social and legal approaches (Cellini, 2013)
The prison reorganization requested by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) calls for the active involvement of workers and prisoners
There is a need to enhance the relationship between the staff and the prison population in order to protect the community needs in which the prisoner has the right of re-integration
Summary
The Italian prison system and the work of its operators have been the subject of numerous studies and debates that have analyzed them through different perspectives, such as political, social and legal approaches (Cellini, 2013). The institution has aimed to improve the appreciation of prison workers who perceived the negative judgment of the Council of Europe as a personal defeat In response to these factors, the Italian system is committed to ensuring the welfare of prisoners, harmonizing disparate regulations and operational practices. The main response to this issue is the application of a so-called open regime (described in Art. 6 of the Penitentiary of 1975) which ensures better living conditions for private individuals deprived of personal liberties According to this reform, the cell is used exclusively for sleeping in at night. It is important that prison staff get to know prisoners and help develop a sense of responsibility, enhancing the quality of the relationships among prisoners, and between prisoners and staff These factors emphasize the high level of attention focused on the protection of the dynamics between professional workers and prisoners’ rights
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
