Crime and rehabilitation in one women's prison
24 November, 2008, 06:02
A women's prison in Russia is serious about rehabilitating its inmates by having them learn trade skills and promoting motherhood.
Punishment is the main focus of most Russian prisons. A long sentence term usually means the end of a normal life. However, one women's prison outside Moscow is trying to give these criminals, half of which are murder offenders, a chance at rehabilitation.
Inmates at prison UU-163/5 work eight hours a day making clothes and other textiles. Many say the hard work actually helps pass the time.
“I've been here for five years. At first, as a woman, I was scared. But you get used to everything. Actually, it's not so bad, and they encourage you…” said one inmate.
The prison rewards hard work and those who take up extra classes during the inmates’ free time allows them more freedom to move around the area and use extensive visiting facilities.
Maria Kanabikh is chairperson of the Prisoners' Aid Foundation and she hopes that this prison model will be used as an example across the rest of the country.
“Unfortunately, rehabilitation is not a priority for many Russian prisons. The conditions here are more comfortable than elsewhere, though the term ‘comfortable prison’ is an oxymoron,” said Kanabikh.
The prison here sees very little violence. While there are frequent verbal confrontations, women do not face the conflict and hierarchies common to men's prisons.
Women are even allowed overnight visits from boyfriends and husbands. This, naturally, has led to the birth of dozens of children.
Not all the inmates are allowed to spend time with their children, but those deemed fit are allowed to actively partake in the child's life.
The statistics do not point in the women's favor, however. Many of those released will have trouble finding a job and some will even return as repeat offenders. It is hoped this new system will improve their chances at leading a normal life.