Article 8: The Finnish Smart Prison Reform (2018–2025): Lessons on Implementing and Sustaining Digital Transformation in Corrections
https://doi.org/10.65264/AYKQ2189Abstract
Correctional systems worldwide are increasingly adopting digital technologies to support rehabilitation, service delivery and institutional efficiency. Yet digital transformation in corrections is often approached primarily as a technological undertaking, while its organizational and governance dimensions receive less attention. This article examines the Finnish Smart Prison reform (2018–2025) as a case study of digital transformation in corrections.
Drawing on institutional evaluations, academic research and international comparative evidence, the article examines how secure digital services became embedded in everyday prison practice through participatory design, organizational adaptation and continuous evaluation. The findings indicate that digitalisation can strengthen rehabilitation and access to services, support fundamental rights and enhance organizational effectiveness when implemented within corrections.
The Finnish experience offers lessons for correctional systems seeking to implement and sustain digital transformation. The findings suggest that success depends less on technology than on organizational readiness, staff engagement, evidence-informed implementation and sustained governance. Digital ecosystems may also help corrections respond to challenges such as overcrowding, workforce shortages and growing service demands. The article argues that digital transformation in corrections should be understood primarily as an organizational and governance challenge; the greatest challenge is not introducing digital technologies but sustaining them as part of everyday correctional practice.
Keywords: Smart Prison; digital rehabilitation; correctional digitalisation; organizational change; change management; prison reform; governance; Finland
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