Education in prison: the Council of Europe updates its Recommendation to account for recent developments
Education in prison: the Council of Europe updates its Recommendation to account for recent developmentsElaborated by the Council for Penological Co-operation (PC-CP), Recommendation CM/Rec(2026)5 on education in prison replaces the previous Recommendation from 1989, in order to take account of technological developments for digital teaching and learning, the increased understanding around key factors that impact the ability to learn such as neurodiversity, addiction, or mental health issues, and to ensure that the provision and quality of prison education is duly reviewed.
The recommendation reiterates the central principle that access to education must be provided to all prisoners, throughout detention and through a broad and balanced curriculum comparable to the education provided for adult learners in the community.
Education is understood in its broader sense, and should include traditional educational frameworks but also provide prisoners with practical life skills in order to better manage life in prison and after release. Emphasis is also laid on vocational education and training, digital literacy, creative arts and cultural activities, physical education and sport, and access to library services.
The Recommendation was adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 8 April 2026 at the 1556th meeting of the Ministers' Deputies.
The implementation of this Recommendation will be monitored by the Council for Penological Co-operation (PC-CP) and the Council of Europe Committee on Crime Problems (CDPC), ensuring its alignment with best practices and fostering cooperation with key stakeholders.
