ICPA Unveils Comprehensive Framework for Modern Corrections: 12 Founding Statements Chart Path Forward

The International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) has unveiled a comprehensive set of 12 founding statements that establish a modern framework for humane and effective corrections worldwide. Approved at the organization's 2025 Annual General Meeting, these statements represent years of research, consultation, and refinement aimed at providing guidance to jurisdictions across the globe in the delivery of correctional services.

 

The founding statements, which build upon earlier versions approved in 2018, reflect ICPA's commitment to aligning correctional practices with international human rights standards, including the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Mandela Rules) and the Bangkok Rules for women offenders.

 

 

"These statements represent a vision for corrections that prioritizes human dignity, rehabilitation, and public safety," said Natalie Boal, the Executive Director of ICPA. "They provide practical guidance for correctional agencies worldwide while remaining flexible enough to adapt to local contexts and resources."

 

 

Recognizing the growing population of elderly prisoners, this statement addresses the unique healthcare, accommodation, and social needs of aged and frail individuals in custody. It emphasizes specialized medical care, accessible facilities, and consideration of compassionate release where appropriate.

 

Education is positioned as a fundamental right and rehabilitation tool. The statement advocates for comprehensive educational programs—from literacy training to tertiary education—that prepare incarcerated individuals for successful reintegration and reduce recidivism through personal development.

 

This statement establishes that prisoners are entitled to the same standard of healthcare available in the community. It addresses physical and mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and the principle that healthcare professionals in prisons must adhere to the same ethical standards as their community counterparts.

 

With mental health challenges affecting a significant proportion of incarcerated populations, this statement calls for comprehensive mental health screening, treatment, and support services. It emphasizes trauma-informed care and the need for specialized training for correctional staff.

 

Recognizing that young offenders require different approaches than adults, this statement advocates for age-appropriate interventions, education, skill development, and family engagement. It emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment and the importance of preparing young people for productive futures.

 

This critical statement establishes strict parameters for the use of force, emphasizing that it must be a last resort, proportionate, and carefully documented. It prohibits torture and cruel treatment while providing clear guidelines for legitimate security measures.

 

Addressing one of the most controversial aspects of corrections, this statement limits the use of segregation and isolation, calling for strict time limits, regular review, and the prohibition of indefinite or prolonged isolation. It emphasizes that segregation should never be used as punishment for mental health conditions.

 

The newest addition to ICPA's founding statements, approved in 2025, promotes community supervision as a preferred alternative to incarceration. It outlines principles for effective supervision, support, and reintegration, emphasizing public safety, accountability, and evidence-informed practices. The statement recognizes that successful community corrections requires partnerships between government agencies, nonprofits, and community volunteers.

 

Quality corrections depend on well-trained staff. This statement calls for comprehensive initial and ongoing training in communication, de-escalation, ethics, rehabilitation principles, and specialized skills for working with diverse populations. It emphasizes that training should reflect international standards and evolving research.

 

Preparing incarcerated individuals for employment upon release is central to reducing recidivism. This statement advocates for accredited vocational training aligned with labor market needs, prison industries that provide meaningful work, and transition planning that includes post-release job placement support.

 

Women in custody have unique needs that require gender-responsive approaches. This statement, based on the Bangkok Rules, addresses women's healthcare needs, their roles as primary caregivers, the importance of maintaining family connections, and the need for programs designed specifically for women's circumstances and lower security risk profiles.

 

Currently under review and scheduled for approval at the 2026 Annual General Meeting, this forthcoming statement will address the role of technology in modern corrections, from digital learning tools to communication systems that maintain family connections, while balancing security concerns and privacy rights.

 

 

The founding statements are now available on the ICPA website for both members and non-members, providing accessible guidance for correctional agencies, policymakers, and advocates worldwide.

 

"These statements represent a consensus among corrections professionals from around the world," noted Natalie Boal, the Executive Director of ICPA. "They acknowledge that while resources and contexts vary, certain fundamental principles—human dignity, evidence-based practice, rehabilitation, and public safety—must guide all correctional systems."

 

As corrections systems worldwide face challenges including overcrowding, aging populations, mental health crises, and the need for more effective rehabilitation programs, ICPA's founding statements provide a roadmap for reform. By emphasizing both security and humanity, punishment and redemption, these principles aim to create correctional systems that protect communities while offering genuine opportunities for positive change.

 

The association continues to promote international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in corrections, working toward a future where correctional systems are both safer and more humane.

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