The Directorate for Execution of Sanctions (DES) and selected prison staff were actively involved in the development of a Training Manual for prison staff and Policy paper on the introduction of the concept  of dynamic security in the prisons across the country, aiming to further enhance existing security and control arrangements and provide for the safety and security for all prisoners, staff and visitors, on the basis of building positive relationships with prisoners, thus understanding their personal situation, risk and needs.

DES and the working group (WG) members showed high commitment during the development process and readiness to provide the necessary pre-conditions for full implementation of the concept in practice. It has also been agreed that the concept of dynamic security will be incorporated in all induction and in-service training for staff, thus making them aware of their responsibility to provide safe, secure and humane custody through positive and professional interaction with prisoners.

The Training Manual and Policy paper were discussed and finalised at a 2-day meeting on 11-12 December 2017 in Skopje, facilitated by two international consultants, and attended by 8 WG members, representatives of the national penitentiary system.

The working group meeting was organised within the scope of the Action “Strengthening the protection of the rights of sentenced persons”, co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe within the “Horizontal Facility for Western Balkans and Turkey”.