Enhancing the capacity of the prison staff, building a pilot prison facility connected to a training centre and improving the rehabilitation of prisoners

About this project

<p>The project contributes to Programme outcome&nbsp;“Improved correctional services”.</p> <p>The project supports the measures related to the implementation of penitentiary reform in order to meet the new challenges and international commitments of the Bulgarian state and to achieve real and long-term results.&nbsp;</p> <p>The specific objectives of the project are:</p> <ul> <li>Improving the correctional system by building a "pilot prison". The construction of the new prison facility will reduce the prison population in the area and create conditions that meet European standards, recommendations and good practices. A modern staff training center will be established to be linked to the "pilot prison", capacity up to 100 students and equipped halls for interactive group training and self-study.</li> <li>Upgrading and modernizing the concept of staff training and building a knowledge-based organization. It is planned to increase the capacity of the prison staff through training focused on ethics, values and dynamic security, including working with vulnerable groups (Roma, juvenile drug addicts).</li> <li>Improving rehabilitation of prisoners and enhancing their social competences to reduce recurrence, with a focus on vulnerable groups. With the support and supervision of mentors (probation inspectors in prisons), various programs will be implemented for social competences, parental care and restoration of family ties, the realization of the labor market and other skills.</li> <li>Enhancing synergy and cooperation with stakeholders and civil society to improve the follow-up care of prisoners after their release. An inter-institutional cooperation network will be established with the help of mentors and opportunities will be provided&nbsp;to support prisoners, depending on individual needs. before and after their release. This will help their social inclusion and reduce the risk of re-offending and harming society.</li> </ul>

Bilateral cooperation results

The bilateral cooperation between Bulgaria and Norway under the “Justice” Programme of the Norwegian Financial Mechanism (2014–2021) led to significant improvements in Bulgaria’s correctional system. The project focused on enhancing staff capacity, constructing a pilot prison linked to a training center, and improving rehabilitation services for inmates. A major achievement was the construction of a state-of-the-art prison in Samoranovo, accommodating 400 inmates, along with a training center for correctional officers, a halfway house, a social center, an educational facility, and recreational areas. This facility aligns with European prison standards and provides improved living conditions for inmates and staff. New rehabilitation programs were introduced, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as youth and the Roma community. A structured reintegration framework was developed, including mentoring initiatives and specialized rehabilitation programs. Additionally, a risk assessment tool (BRiNSAT) was created and integrated into the national correctional system to improve inmate evaluation and management. Training efforts were extensive, with 365 correctional staff trained in reintegration programs and 160 in risk assessment. The project also promoted international collaboration, engaging Norwegian correctional experts and European partners to share best practices. Challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic impact of the war in Ukraine, delayed construction and increased costs. However, strategic adjustments ensured continuity, including phased construction and alternative funding solutions. The partnership with Norway played a crucial role, providing expertise and facilitating knowledge exchange. The project’s outcomes strengthened Bulgaria’s correctional system, ensuring sustainability through continued training and policy integration.

Project partners

• Åna Prison Donor project partner· Norway
• Solholmen halfway house Donor project partner· Norway
• The University College of the Norwegian Correctional Service (KRUS) Donor project partner· Norway