From 24 to 26 March 2026, a study visit to Madrid brought together a delegation from the Department of Execution of Criminal Sanctions of Ukraine (DECSU), to explore the application of rehabilitation approaches within the Spanish penitentiary system. In the context of the on-going penitentiary reform in Ukraine, which strives to shift the system from punitive to rehabilitative approaches, the visit offered a unique opportunity to exchange professional experience and gain practical insights into Spanish effective strategies for reducing reoffending and supporting reintegration.
During the first day of the visit, hosted by the General Secretariat of Penitentiary Institutions of Spain, participants were introduced to the structure and functioning of the Spanish prison system, including its key priorities and reform directions. Particular attention was given to the organisation and delivery of rehabilitation programmes, as well as their role in supporting behavioural change and social reintegration of persons deprived of liberty. Discussions also covered probation and preparation for release, as well as approaches to measuring and preventing reoffending.
On the second day, the delegation visited Madrid I women’s prison (Alcalá de Henares), where participants were introduced to the organisation of daily operations and rehabilitation work in a women’s custodial setting. The visit included a tour of prison units and facilities, followed by in-depth discussions with prison staff on practical aspects of programme implementation, individualised approaches to rehabilitation, and addressing the specific needs of women in detention.
The third day focused on Madrid VII prison (Estremera), providing further insights into the functioning of a large penitentiary institution. Participants explored various units and engaged directly with professionals responsible for rehabilitation, security and case management. The exchanges allowed for detailed discussions on interdisciplinary cooperation, programme delivery, and operational challenges, as well as opportunities for adapting relevant practices to the Ukrainian context.
The study visit was highly valued by all participants, who expressed their sincere appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with Spanish counterparts and to gain first-hand insight into effective rehabilitation practices. The experience was widely regarded as both inspiring and practically relevant, offering concrete ideas for further reforms in Ukraine.
The visit enabled Ukrainian stakeholders to reflect on the applicability of Spanish practices in the national context and to identify practical solutions for strengthening rehabilitation efforts within the penitentiary system. The exchange contributed to enhancing professional capacity, fostering dialogue, and supporting evidence-based policy development.
The activity was implemented with the support of the Council of Europe Project “Towards more humane detention conditions and reduced reoffending in Ukraine” (DECOPRIS).
European Prison Rules
