Deputy Minister of Justice of Ukraine Yevhen Pikalov spoke about the reform of the penitentiary system
The reform of the penitentiary system of Ukraine has long been a topic for discussions and plans, but now it has acquired a new strategic importance in the context of European integration. It is part of the so-called “Fundamentals cluster”, which concerns the rule of law, transparency of government and the quality of democratic institutions. The successful implementation of this reform will be a marker of Ukraine’s readiness for membership in the European Union.
The Deputy Minister of Justice of Ukraine, Yevhen Pikalov, during the founding meeting of the Advisory Expert Council at the State Criminal Enforcement Service (SCSU) considers this process extremely important. He noted that the main task of the advisory council is a critical analysis of the current regulatory framework in the field of execution of criminal punishments. This will make it possible to form qualitative recommendations for its improvement, taking into account the best international practices.
“Currently, work is ongoing on the revision of the draft law “On the penitentiary system”, and the Disciplinary Statute of the penitentiary system is also awaiting revision. We have many initiatives for the development of the DKVS – there is room to move and things to improve. And it is not only about the rights of convicts, but also, in principle, about building the capabilities of the service itself. We really we need expert support, honest feedback. And for this we are creating a platform for cooperation and constructiveness.” – said Pikalov.
He also emphasized that one of the key strategic goals is the implementation of the “Strategy for reforming the penitentiary system for the period until 2026” and the implementation of the roadmap for its further development.
In addition, Yevhen Pikalov noted that the European Commission has already carried out a screening report of Ukrainian legislation and provided recommendations, in particular in sections 23 and 24, which concern the law enforcement and judicial systems. In response to this, the Ukrainian side developed a draft road map containing 505 measures to achieve the specified goals. The final draft of this document has already been sent to Brussels for further consideration.
The Deputy Minister of Justice outlined the key problems that need to be solved:
“The development of the penitentiary system is laid down in the draft road map, the Strategy is also mentioned there, and certain of our initiatives for the development of the law enforcement component of the DKVS, which is still in its infancy. After all, for example, we do not have a real ability to carry out covert investigative and search actions, operational and search measures, there is no unit capable of doing this, there is a lack of a full-fledged internal security system capable of protecting personnel and at the same time to document the offenses committed by him”.
Pikalov also announced the creation of new operational structures at the State Security Service, in particular internal security units, operational and technical support (OTZ) departments, operational documentation, polygraph examination units, cyber support and international cooperation.
“Currently, the functional filling of the new structure of the service, which corresponds to the vision of the mentioned road map, is underway. Partners from the EU project “Pravo-Justice” are helping in this work, and I call on the members of the Advisory Council to actively participate in this process.” – emphasized the Deputy Minister of Justice.
At the same time, in the context of international partnership, Pikalov noted that the State Security Council is ready to cooperate with international organizations that can provide expert support and help implement best practices.
The reform of the penitentiary system is not only a fulfillment of EU requirements, but also a deep reboot of the system, which must meet modern challenges and ensure decent conditions for convicts, safety of workers and high standards of justice. The work that has been started is only the first stage in a big transformation that requires coordinated cooperation between the state, experts and international partners.
