Joint Programme

Horizontal Facility

Representatives from the General Directorate of Prisons' Administration, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, State's Advocate, and non-governmental organisations, together with representatives from the European Union and the Council of Europe, gathered in Tirana to discuss their renewed co-operation within the European Union/Council of Europe joint action Enhancing the protection of human rights of prisoners in Albania.

They took stock of the achievements during the past phase of the programme (2019-2022), recognising its direct contribution to the penitentiary reform in Alania. In addition, they reconfirmed the pressing need for the continuation of the current initiatives in priority areas such as the forensic psychiatry, mental health in prisons, rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners, progressive release, and staff capacitation. Co-operation with civil society organisations was underlined as equally important, especially concerning post-penal release and feedback collection from right holders, thus ensuring that the interventions produce positive effects in improving the protection of human rights of prisoners. They further agreed on the plan of activities, including their respective roles and interventions, aiming to improve the provision of mental health in prisons and rehabilitation prospects for prisoners.  

The action on Enhancing the protection of human rights of prisoners in Albania is part of joint initiative of the European Union and the Council of Europe Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2023-2026.