From 27 to 29 October 2026, a study visit to Swiss Confederation brought together a delegation of ten representatives of the Healthcare Centre of the State Criminal-Executive Service of Ukraine to explore application of comprehensive prevention, harm reduction, treatment and rehabilitation programmes for people with substance use disorders in penitentiary settings.

Through the visit, particular attention was given to opioid agonist treatment, needle and syringe exchange programmes, the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, mental health and psychosocial support, and continuity of care upon admission, transfer and release. Discussions also addressed medical confidentiality, staff safety and cooperation with community healthcare providers.

The first day took place in the canton of Vaud, with visits to Bochuz penitentiary, part of the Orbe Plain Prison Complex and La Croisée prison. Participants explored the organisation of healthcare in different detention settings, with particular attention to the multidisciplinary cooperation in identifying healthcare needs and facilitating timely access to appropriate treatment.

On the second day, the delegation visited La Brenaz and Champ-Dollon prisons in the Republic and Canton of Geneva, where exchanges focused on clinical treatment, harm reduction, psychosocial support and rehabilitation, tailored to individual needs.

The final day was dedicated to a visit to Bellechasse prison, part of the Fribourg detention facility, where exchanges focused on psychosocial support, multidisciplinary cooperation and preparation for release. Discussions highlighted the importance of continuity of care in supporting rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.

The study visit strengthened institutional capacity, promoted policy dialogue and deepened cooperation between Ukrainian and Swiss counterparts on the organisation and delivery of treatment, care and rehabilitation services for persons deprived of their liberty with substance use disorders.

_{The activity was organised within the framework of the Council of Europe project “Towards More Humane Conditions of Detention and Reduced Reoffending in Ukraine” (DECOPRIS)”.}