KCS strengthens prison discipline with new codes on inmates’ conduct and leave

Ismail Dibrani, director general of the Kosovo Correctional Service, today signed two key documents: the code of conduct for prisoners and guidelines clarifying the criteria for granting convicted persons leave outside correctional facilities.

These new measures aim to improve standards in the areas of security, order and discipline inside prisons. They provide a clearer and more uniform methodology both for managing the prison population and for mechanisms that promote rehabilitation and prepare inmates to return to society.

The code of conduct establishes the behavioral norms and standards required of prisoners and remand detainees throughout their stay at the institution. Emphasis is placed on complying with rules of order, maintaining appropriate communication with staff and fellow inmates, rejecting violence, threats or fights, respecting the dignity and freedoms of others, and actively engaging in security, rehabilitation and reintegration procedures.

As for the guidelines on leave outside prison, the document details the application procedure and the assessment of the criteria for obtaining this right. The assessment is conducted in an individualized, impartial and professional manner, based on measurable and verifiable facts and a risk analysis.

The review takes into account the nature of the criminal offense committed, the inmate’s attitude toward it, his conduct while serving his sentence, the level of compliance with internal discipline, participation in rehabilitation programs, the degree of responsibility and reliability demonstrated, the risk he poses to community safety, the likelihood of reoffending, his history of escape attempts, as well as the family context and support.

This assessment process is led by a multidisciplinary team. After weighing all the relevant criteria, factors and circumstances, the team conducts an interview with the inmate and then recommends to the prison director whether to approve or reject the request. The final decision is based on a reasoned assessment and current legislation.

Through these actions, the Kosovo Correctional Service is further modernizing professional standards inside prisons, placing security and discipline at the center while also maintaining a focus on rehabilitation, individual accountability and preparing convicted persons for an orderly life after release.