A delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Justice and comprising officials from Armenia's Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health and the Prison Medicine Centre sought to gain insights into the well-established telemedicine infrastructure and a comprehensive legal framework governing the prison healthcare system of the French Republic, with a specific focus on sharing experiences and best practices. The study visit was organised by the Council of Europe from 15 to 17 November 2023.

The visit provided an opportunity to engage in productive discussions and collaborative sessions with counterparts from the French Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Health. Apart from these encounters, the delegation made practical observations during visits to hospitals and penitentiary centres, witnessing first-hand the workings of telemedicine and its potential to bridge the gaps in healthcare delivery within correctional facilities.

By incorporating successful telemedicine practices observed in France, the Armenian authorities aspire to enhance healthcare services within prisons in light of the human rights-based approach.

This event is part of the Council of Europe’s support within the framework of the Project “Strengthening the protection of the rights of persons in detention” that assists the national authorities to further enhance penitentiary reform, prison health care and the protection of human rights of persons deprived of liberty. The Project is financed within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026 and implemented by the Council of Europe.