Memorial Page for Peter Severin

On behalf of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), I would like to extend our collective condolences on the passing of International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) President, Mr. Peter Severin to the ICPA Board, staff and of course, President Severin’s family and loved ones. The enhanced collaboration between the ICRC and ICPA over the past several years was a direct result of Peter’s leadership and his unwavering commitment to humane corrections. This collaboration, spanning prison management, health and prison design has had, and will continue to have an impact on the lives of detainees and prison staff around the world and will no doubt be part of his legacy. He will be dearly missed. Again, please accept our sincere condolences at this difficult time.

Terry Hackett

International Committee of the Red Cross

It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, President of the ICPA. A man of vision and conviction, he devoted his life to serving the correctional field, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of commitment, innovation, and humanity. On my own behalf and on behalf of the General Directorate of Prison Administration and Reintegration of Morocco, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his loved ones, and the entire ICPA community, and we share their grief in this difficult time. His memory and his work will remain a source of inspiration for all those who are dedicated to this field.

Nassiba Fassi-Fihri

the General Directorate of Prison Administration and Reintegration of Morocco

On behalf of the Bermuda Department of Corrections, I offer my sincere condolences to the family of President Severin. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you be comforted by the memories that you have of him and the moments spent with him. His contributions to the Corrections/Prison community are very much appreciated.

Bermuda Department of Corrections

It is with great sadness that we received the news of the passing of the former President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), Mr. Peter Severin. On behalf of the Kosovo Correctional Service and in my personal name, I extend our most sincere condolences to the ICPA community and to his family.

Mr. Severin was an outstanding leader with vision and dedication to the advancement of correctional systems worldwide. He strongly supported the membership of the Kosovo Correctional Service in ICPA in 2019, contributing to the fact that today our institution is part of a professional international network and a model of success in the region, both in the field of prisoner resocialization and reintegration, as well as in security. His legacy and invaluable contribution will always be remembered and will remain a source of inspiration for all of us. Our deepest sympathies go to his family, friends, and the entire ICPA community.

Kosovo Correctional Service

We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of President Peter Severin. His dedication to advancing corrections and promoting humanity and rehabilitation globally is truly inspiring. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. May his legacy continue to shape the future of corrections.

Moses Chihobvu, Commissioner General

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service

I just wanted to extend my condolences to you all during this difficult time. I personally worked with Peter in a design capacity on a number of projects and as part of the ICPA network. He was so kind with his time and energy and had such a passion for the corrections industry.
He was also incredibly patient and considerate. He is irreplaceable to those of us in the corrections industry, but I can’t imagine how you must be feeling having lost him. I hope that hearing about how much he meant to all the people affected by his passing brings some comfort in this difficult time.

Anthea Doyle

On behalf of EuroPris, the European Organisation of Prison and Correctional Services, we would like to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Peter Severin. We were deeply saddened to learn of his sudden illness and passing, and our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Peter’s remarkable career and his lifelong dedication to advancing humane, professional, and forward-looking prison services made a profound impact not only in Australia but across the international community. His focus on dignity, rehabilitation, and positive change has left a legacy that will continue to inspire correctional professionals around the world. Peter was not only a highly respected leader within the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), but also a valued supporter of EuroPris. His encouragement and commitment to both of our organisations strengthened our shared efforts to promote international cooperation and best practices in corrections. For this, and for his personal kindness and generosity, we will always be grateful. Please accept our heartfelt sympathies, and know that we stand with ICPA and your family in mourning the loss of a dear colleague and friend.

Caron McCaffrey, President and Gustav Tallving, Executive Director

The European Organisation of Prison and Correctional Services

The National Administration of Penitentiaries of Romania expresses its profound sorrow at the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, an eminent leader and visionary in the field of corrections. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Severin dedicated himself to strengthening correctional systems, advancing rehabilitation practices, and promoting professionalism across jurisdictions worldwide. His unwavering commitment to humane and effective correctional services has left an enduring legacy that transcends national borders. As President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association, Mr. Severin played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation among correctional professionals from all continents. His leadership inspired not only institutional progress but also a renewed sense of responsibility towards the mission of corrections: the protection of society through safe, just, and rehabilitative practices. For the Romanian penitentiary system, as for many others, Peter Severin was a model of integrity, wisdom, and dedication. His vision and achievements will continue to guide our efforts to build modern correctional systems centred on dignity, reintegration, and public trust. On behalf of the Romanian National Administration of Penitentiaries, we honour the memory of Mr. Peter Severin and extend our deepest condolences both to his family and to all who had the privilege of working with him and who now mourn his passing. His contribution to the global correctional community will not be forgotten. May his memory remain an inspiration for generations of correctional professionals to come.

Romanian National Administration of Penitentiaries

On behalf of Richard Robinson, Shannon McReynolds, and the corrections team in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of ICPA President Peter Severin. Peter’s steadfast dedication to advancing effective correctional practices in Australia and globally reflected his profound belief in the importance of protecting the human dignity of incarcerated individuals. His leadership and vision have left an enduring legacy within the international corrections community. As President of ICPA, Peter was instrumental in driving meaningful corrections reform, and his passing is a significant loss to our profession. Please know that our thoughts are with you, his family, and the entire ICPA community during this difficult time.

Richard Robinson and Shannon McReynolds

Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement at the U.S. Department of State

My sincerest and heartfelt condolences to Peter's wife, Isabelle, and son Julian on the shocking and sad loss of Peter. May you be surrounded by love and support, and the care that he's always provided. It's so hard to accept this loss. You're in my thoughts and prayers. He was truly a great man and a leader.

John May

My condolences to Peter’s wife and family. I first met Peter in 2017 in NSW on the Clarence Project and then in the ICPA over the years since then. It was a shoc,k and it’s a very sad occurrence. He will be missed!

Sir Tim Purcell

MHS

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful. It is with deep sorrow and great sadness that we have received the news of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, ICPA President, MR. PETER SEVERIN With his departure, we have lost a remarkable individual who left a lasting impact through his dedication, sincerity, and commitment to his work. On this painful occasion, we extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to his esteemed family, praying that God Almighty grants him His infinite mercy and welcomes him into His eternal paradise, and that He grants his loved ones patience and solace. We also share this great loss with our colleagues in the ICPA, hoping that we may all be inspired by his noble character and his devotion to duty.

Mohammed Mubarak Alabbar

We are very saddened to hear of Peter Severin's as he was instrumental in us joining ICPA. More recently, we established contacts for our membership, but unfortunately, whilst still in the process, we've lost him. Our sincere condolences to close members of ICPA and, of course, his immediate family members. May his lost rest in peace.

Bernard Nepo, Acting Commissioner

PNG Corrections

I stand with you today to honour the memory of our dear friend and colleague, Peter Severin. His passing is a great loss to all of us, both personally and professionally. Through his work and leadership, Peter showed us what it means to value human dignity, to believe in change, and to pursue justice with compassion. He was more than a leader in corrections—he was a kind, humble, and visionary man who touched lives across the world. I will always remember Peter’s humanity, his generosity, and his unwavering belief that every person has the potential for transformation. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire us for many years to come. To his wife Isabelle, his son Julian, his mother, and the entire family, please accept my heartfelt condolences. May you find comfort in knowing that Peter’s impact reaches far beyond these walls and that his spirit lives on in the lives he inspired. May the entire family find comfort from the Almighty God.

Prof. Nebath Tanglang

On behalf of the Korea Correctional Service, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of President Peter Severin. Though some days have passed, we continue to recognize the significant loss felt by your organization and those who admired his leadership. His contributions to the field were remarkable, and his legacy will be remembered with deep respect. We stand in solidarity with your team during this period and look forward to continuing the collaboration he valued so highly.

Korea Correctional Service

On behalf of the Penitentiary Service of the Republic of Angola, we wish to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. Peter Severin. His visionary leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to correctional reform have left a profound and lasting impact on the global corrections community. We at the Angola Penitentiary Service have followed his work with great admiration and are deeply grateful for the example and inspiration he provided. Please find attached a message of condolence from His Excellency Bernardo Pereira do Amaral Gourgel, Director General of the Angola Penitentiary Service. Kindly accept our heartfelt sympathies during this time of grief. Our thoughts are with your family, and we wish you strength and peace in the days ahead. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Bernardo Pereira do Amaral Gourgel, Director General

Penitentiary Service of the Republic of Angol

As former Vice President of ICPA, I had the privilege to meet Peter and work with him, a clever and open-minded person who believed in the good of human nature.
Moreover, I had the privilege to meet you and spend time with him and his wife, Isabelle, when I visited Australia (the Jewish community). It is really an unbelievable loss for you, his son and mother, as well as for all Peter’s friends all over the world.

Lt. General (Ret) Orit Adato

Peter was a remarkable person whose humility was truly boundless. He possessed an extraordinary ability for welcoming others with an open door and an open mind, regardless of their status, character, or background. His sincere kindness and warm-hearted nature made a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to know him. During his tenure as Chief Executive of the Department for Correctional Services in South Australia, I had the privilege of meeting Peter on multiple occasions. Often, I would drive him through rural and remote community correctional centres during his visits. Each visit showcased his steadfast commitment, compassion, and genuine desire to positively impact the lives of others. His presence was a beacon of inspiration and hope, serving as a reminder of the importance of humility and understanding, regardless of the prominence of our roles. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies during this challenging time. Peter’s spirit of kindness and humility will always live on in our hearts. May you find comfort in the treasured memories you hold and strength in knowing how profoundly he touched the lives of so many of us.

Dr Yilma Woldgabreal

Department for Correctional Services, Government of South Australia

I was fortunate to have known Peter Severin and to work alongside him and it is with deep sadness that I reflect on his passing. Peter was a visionary leader whose impact on corrections was both profound and enduring. His commitment to progressive reform set a standard that inspired many of us across the globe. Whether implementing transformative policies in New South Wales or guiding international collaboration through ICPA, Peter always placed humanity at the heart of his work. He believed in the potential of every individual to change, and he worked tirelessly to create systems that supported that belief. To his family, friends, and the ICPA community, I extend my heartfelt condolences. May we honor Peter’s memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed.

Anne Kelly, Commissioner

Correctional Service Canada

My heartfelt condolences for your loss. Peter Severin had dedicated his life to making the world a better and safer place to live, particularly prisons and for that, his legacy will live on. Sending you love and hugs from Namibia.

Mirjam Nghitoolwa

We deeply regret the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, President of ICPA . On behalf of our institution, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and the entire ICPA community, we stand with them in this moment of grief. We recognize and honor Mr. Severin's remarkable work, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment throughout his career, leaving a legacy that will endure as an example of professionalism and dedication.

Inspector General Lie. Fernando Martínez

The National Directorate Federal Prison Service Argentina

On behalf of our entire management team, please accept our deepest sympathies. We wish you courage and peace during this time of mourning. Sending heartfelt condolences.

Anke Gittenaer

Agency for Justice and Enforcement - Belgium

On behalf of ViaPath and myself, I wish to extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Peter. We share in the sorrow felt by Isabelle, his son Julian, and his entire family, and stand in sympathy with the corrections community during this difficult time.

Gad Tobaly

ViaPath Technologies

It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Mr. Severing the esteemed Director of ICPA. Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Mr. Severing was not only a remarkable leader but also a person of great integrity and vision. His tireless dedication, wisdom, and commitment to advancing the mission of ICPA will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege to work with him. His contribution has left an enduring impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire colleagues and future generations alike. I can only imagine the profound loss felt by his family, colleagues, and the entire ICPA community. Please know that my thoughts are with you as you navigate through this period of grief. May you find comfort in the memories of his remarkable life and the positive influence he has had on so many. On behalf of the General Directorate of Prisons of Albania, I extend my sincere sympathies to you, his family, and everyone at ICPA. If there is any way I can be of assistance or support during this time, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Klevis QOSE

General Directorate of Prisons of Albania

It is with profound sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences to you on the sudden passing of Peter. His loss is felt deeply, not only within the ICPA community but also personally, as I was fortunate to know him as both a colleague and a friend. Peter was more than an outstanding professional – he was a warm, sincere, and kind-hearted man whose humanity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His openness, generosity of spirit, and genuine care for people created bonds that went far beyond professional collaboration. Our friendship was one I will always treasure. I still vividly remember our conversations as we prepared for the upcoming ICPA Conference in Istanbul, and especially his wish to explore Türkiye. Those discussions, now precious memories, remind me of his curiosity, his warmth, and his love of life. From a professional standpoint, Peter’s contributions to the correctional field were nothing short of remarkable. His vision, leadership, and unwavering belief in the dignity of every individual have left an indelible mark on the global correctional community. His work in New South Wales and later as President of ICPA advanced prison and probation systems in ways that will continue to benefit society for generations. He inspired all of us to pursue reforms with both determination and compassion. On behalf of the Directorate General of Prisons and Detention Houses of Türkiye, and personally as Deputy Director General and a member of the ICPA Board, I offer my heartfelt condolences. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Peter’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the reforms he championed, and the friendships he so warmly cultivated.

Fatih Güngör, Deputy Director

Directorate General of Prisons and Detention Houses of Türkiye

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of our esteemed colleague, Mr. Peter Severin, President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), who left us far too soon following a sudden illness. Peter devoted his life to advancing the field of corrections, first in Germany, and then in Australia, where he served as Commissioner for Correctional Services in New South Wales from 2012 to 2021. In recent years, as President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA), Peter extended his influence globally. He was instrumental in fostering international cooperation and promoting best practices across continents. He will be remembered for his professionalism, vision, and his deep belief in the dignity and rehabilitation of every individual. His contributions – from innovative reforms in New South Wales to his tireless efforts in promoting international cooperation – have left a lasting impact on correctional services worldwide. On behalf of the Slovenian Prison Administration, please allow me to extend our sincere condolences to his family and to all colleagues in ICPA. Peter’s legacy of humanity, leadership, and dedication will continue to inspire correctional professionals around the world.

Slovenian Prison Administration

Slovenian Prison Administration

This is very sad and a great loss not only to his family but also to the Prisons and Correctional Services worldwide. It is our heartfelt regret for the passing away of Mr. Peter Severin, ICPA President and on behalf of the Commissioner General, Rwanda Correctional Service, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and Condolences to the beloved family. We pray that God will strengthen his family during this period of bereavement. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Alex C MUGISHA

Rwanda Correctional Serivice

It is with great sadness that the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) learns of the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, esteemed President of the International Corrections Prison Association (ICPA). His passing is profoundly felt within the corrections international community. We are especially grateful for the regular opportunities for exchange of correctional knowledge that Singapore Prison Service had with the Correctional Services New South Wales when Peter was the Commissioner then. This close partnership continued during Peter's tenure as President of ICPA and SPS has benefited from the many ICPA knowledge exchange platforms that have been made possible under Peter's leadership of ICP A. More recently, my officers and I had the opportunity to work closely with Peter and the ICPA team when we co-organised the ICPA Conference in Singapore in 2024. His leadership has strengthened the bonds between correctional agencies globally and will continue to influence the work of those who follow in his footsteps. In all our engagements with Peter, his dedication and passion to promoting correctional excellence and innovation worldwide has been an inspiration to all. His life's work has uplifted the professionalism of correctional practitioners and impacted the lives of the beneficiaries of correctional services and agencies working with correctional population. We will always remember Peter with great respect and appreciation.

SHIE YONG LEE, Commissioner of Prisons

Singapore Prison Service

It was a great shock to learn that Peter Severin has passed away. I cannot imagine how hard this must be for Isabelle, Julian and other family! I send my sincere condolences to you all. I knew Peter in my previous role as Director General of the Norwegian correctional service and had a fruitful cooperation with Peter over many years, especially the period we both were part of the Board of ICPA. He was a true internationalist and was a value driven President of the Board. Peter, alongside Isabelle, was also very hospitable. I will never forget the wonderful day on the boat and afterwards barbecuing in your lovely home! I will remember Peter with gratitude and respect.

Marianne Vollan

It is with deep sadness that we have received the tragic news of the passing of Peter Severin. In light of our partnership with the ICPA in supporting the global corrections community, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones as well as all the colleagues who have had the pleasure and opportunity to work with him during the years. Petet was a dedicated individual and leader who strived to improve the lives of incarcerated people around the world. His ambition and vision have served the global community well, and he will be dearly missed.

Martin Gillå

Swedish Prison and Probation Service

The Commissioner of Prisons and the staff of the Mauritius Prison Service extend their deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association. Mr. Severin’s lifelong dedication to corrections and his unwavering commitment to dignity, rehabilitation, and reform have left an enduring legacy that will inspire generations of correctional professionals worldwide. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues, and the entire ICPA community during this time of profound loss.

Mauritius Prison Service

I write this with sadness on learning of the recent passing of Peter Severin. It comes as a shock to myself and all of us at TIJ to hear of his sudden and unexpected passing, having so recently worked closely with himself and the ICPA team in the lead up to and during the Women In Corrections Conference earlier this year. His steadfast support for our work in mainstreaming the and advancing the role played by women in all facets of corrections as well as his enthusiasm that he showed for improving corrections systems and outcomes the world over will be remembered. My thoughts and those of my team are with you in this sad time.

Chontit Chuenurah

Thailand Institute of Justice

I would like to send my deepest condolences to Mrs Severin and his family. I met Isabelle during an ICPA conference in Melbourne. She was lovely and her love and respect for Peter was so evident, as was his for her! Peter was always kind to me and supported the work I was doing both with complex inmates and then terrorism related offenders. He ensured that he always promoted our work and supported opportunities for us to learn, share our learning and connect professionally worldwide. I believe Peter represented CSNSW well across all disciplines and was a true example of valuing staff regardless of background. He will be very sadly missed. Thank you, Sir, for your integrity, belief in people and most importantly genuine care.

Naomi Prince

Corrective Services NSW

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Peter Severin, President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association. To me, Peter was always the friendly, welcoming face of the ICPA — a leader who genuinely cared about progress and humanity in corrections. Meeting him each year over the past decade was a joy; his warmth, his passion and his dedication to bettering prison systems were inspiring. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Peter’s loss will be felt deeply across Unilink my company as well as by me personally. I know his legacy will continue to influence our work for years to come. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

Francis Toye

Unilink Software

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Peter Severin, President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association on 17 August 2025. I had the honour to know him and had the greatest respect for him. Mr. Severin was a visionary leader who dedicated his entire professional life to advancing prison and correctional services both in Australia and internationally. He displayed his humanity and professionalism during his visit to Hong Kong for the 42nd Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators. I believe his legacy will continue to inspire correctional professionals worldwide for generations to come. On behalf of all staff of the Hong Kong Correctional Services Department, I extend our deepest condolences to you and your family.

WONG Kwok-hing, Commissioner

Hong Kong Correctional Services Department

It is with a sad feeling that my wife and I ( Andersn & Susan Goodridge) express our condolences to the family, relatives and friends of the late Peter Severin ICPA President. I am certain that his work and all that he has done and stood for will leave a invaluable mark and impression on all the lifes he touch. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Andersn & Susan Goodridge

We want to record our sorrow at the loss of Peter Severin. He was not only President of the ICPA but also he was the NSW Commissioner of Corrective Services for eleven years during which we had continual relations with him. It was on his watch that we achieved a first in the world – getting telecommunications into NSW prison cells through computer tablets, for delivering domestic violence counselling from trusted external suppliers, and linking prisoners with their families whilst being physically isolated in cells. That success was recognised as groundbreaking, which he followed through with his support of the annual ICPA Technology in Corrections Conferences. We will miss him but will continue his work as a legacy of his commitment to enable positive change.

Hon John Dowd AO KC

Community Justice Coalition

Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Peter was a true gem. He always treated everyone with respect and was genuine in all he did. His family and the entire correctional world have lost an incredible human being. It is with great sadness that I hear of this tragic news.

Judith Sammon

On behalf of the men and women of the Philippine Bureau of Corrections, I extend our deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved husband, Mr. Peter Severin,
President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA). Mr. Severin was a visionary leader in the global corrections community. From his early service in Germany, to his distinguished tenure as Commissioner for Correctional Services in New South Wales, and later as President of the ICPA, he devoted his life
to advancing humane, professional, and evidence-based correctional practices. His enduring contributions strengthened not only national systems but also international
cooperation in corrections. He will be remembered for championing reforms that upheld human dignity, rehabilitation, and global solidarity. His steadfast belief in the capacity of every individual to change continues to inspire correctional professionals worldwide, including here in the Philippines. We in the Bureau of Corrections recall with gratitude how Peter warmly received a copy of our very first coffee table book, "A New Way Forward," during the Corrections Technology Conference 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand last February. This simple yet meaningful exchange reflected his genuine support and encouragement for BuCor's reform journey. At this moment of loss, we join you, your son Julian, and the entire ICPA community in mourning. May you find comfort in the knowledge that Peter's legacy of humanity, professionalism, and leadership will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to work with him. Rest in peace, President Severin. Your life of service will never be forgotten.

Philippines Department of Justice and the Bureau of Corrections