On 14 May 2026, within the framework of the Council of Europe Project “Towards More Humane Detention Conditions and Reduced Reoffending in Ukraine” (DECOPRIS), a Working Group meeting on the use of force and video surveillance systems (CCTV) in penitentiary institutions was held.

The event took place in a constructive and productive atmosphere. The meeting brought together Council of Europe international consultant George Tugushi, representatives of the Department for the Execution of Criminal Sanctions, and the Public Law Department of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine.

Participants reviewed the most critical recommendations concerning the use of force and video surveillance systems in penitentiary institutions that required further clarification, as well as recommendations already accepted for implementation. The meeting concluded with the identification of practical steps for the implementation of the recommendations.

A notable outcome of the meeting was that the majority of recommendations have already been taken into account or are at various stages of implementation, demonstrating the serious and responsible commitment of national partners to aligning practices with international standards. Participants also confirmed their readiness to continue constructive cooperation in this area.

The Council of Europe project “Towards More Humane Conditions of Detention and Reduced Reoffending in Ukraine” (DECOPRIS) is implemented within the framework of  the Council of Europe’s Action Plan for Ukraine “Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction” (2023–2026). DECOPRIS aims to enhance the protection of prisoners’ rights by improving prison management practices and advancing rehabilitation efforts.