External Prison Oversight and Human Rights

MISSION:

To share information, best practices and lessons learned on effective external prison oversight and to enhance openness, transparency and accountability among prison authorities.

OBJECTIVES:

Build an international community and network of organizations responsible for prison oversight.
Share information on best practices and lessons learned on effective external prison oversight.
Generate constructive dialogue on the values and benefits of external oversight with prison authorities.
Promote compliance with the Rule of Law and domestic/international human rights obligations with respect to prisoners and prison staff.
Provide technical advice and assistance to organizations responsible for prison oversight as requested and appropriate.
Provide capacity building on oversight operations, including investigations, inspections, visits and alternative dispute resolution.

KEY ACTIVITIES:

Provide a platform to share information, best practices and lessons learned on external prison oversight and human rights among the Network and ICPA members.
Promote constructive and professional dialogue between external prison oversight organizations with prison authorities subject to their oversight.
Share news, reports and publications via a semi-annual (to become quarterly) newsletter covering these topics:
- Message from the Network Chair
- Recent reports/initiatives from Network members
- Best practices and case studies
- Legal updates on domestic and international human rights
- Academic articles and graduate theses on external prison oversight
- Future conferences/events of interest
- On the move and vacancies
Provide technical advice and assistance to jurisdictions as requested and appropriate.
Identify trends and issues in challenging areas of prison operations, including solitary confinement, use of force, mental health care, and addressing the needs of vulnerable segments of the prisoner population.
Raise awareness on values and benefits of external prison oversight, including its contribution to public safety.