In an effort to support Armenia in strengthening mental health care in penitentiary institutions, a series of specialised training sessions were organised on 25-26 and 29-30 August 2023. Over 20 psychologists and psychiatrists representing the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Health participated in the sessions, demonstrating a cooperative approach towards improving inmate well-being.

The training sessions were aimed at enhancing the skills of medical and non-medical staff working in diverse penitentiary environments in line with the curricula developed by Council of Europe consultants. The training materials offered insights based on best practices aligned with the relevant international standards. The interactive sessions facilitated discussions on effective mental health care strategies, therapeutic techniques, and inmate counselling methodologies.

This event is part of the Council of Europe’s support within the framework of the Project “Strengthening the right 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.