Deplorable prison conditions in Ukraine

In the disciplinary block, cells do not receive proper ventilation because the windows are concealed from the inside and the outside, making it difficult to access to fresh air. Bathrooms are not equipped with a semi-automatic water drain.

In the socio-psychological service, the toilets are closed. Inmates have to use one located outside, in the street, which is in an unsanitary state.

Most of the prisoners interviewed who were employed by the institution, did not have information on the earnings they received for their work.

During the visit, the monitoring delegation identified certain shortcomings in medical care. Some medical staff positions were not occupied, such as a psychiatrist or a therapist. In spite of legal requirements, a doctor that specializes in addictions treats therapeutic patients. Chronic patients do not receive proper treatment for their illness because record keeping is not properly organized in the nursery.
Medical care in the emergency unit was unsatisfactory. The unit not properly equipped and the medical assistant working there was not properly trained for the position.
The general sanitary and hygienic condition of the medical unit was deficient: the air temperature in the hospital was only 10 degrees, the room was dark, bed linen was unwashed, and dirty dishes sat in the dining room of the medical staff.
At the time of the visit, a paramedic was in the surgery room without a dressing gown. Syringes were stored in the boxes and in the dentist’s safe. In addition, overdue drugs were kept in the storage room.

Following the monitoring visit, a list of recommendations will be send to the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine in order to address the identified shortcomings.