Organisation overview

Convictus Eesti

Latsin Alijev

Mardi 3

10145 Tallinn

Estonia

372 56506316

372 6410133

Russian, English

Non-governmental

9-20

1-8

Injecting drug users (IDUs), People living with HIV (PLHIV), Prisoners (ex-)

Local, National, European

Government, International donors

Respect for human rights and international healthcare norms in penitentiary system is an integral part of work with inmates. It is necessary to address vulnerability issues of inmates to HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, drug use and sexually transmitted infections. It is necessary to introduce and implement programs to reduce stigma and discrimination in relation to this social group. In order to provide effective re-socialization services for ex-inmates, and as a consequence, to reduce relapses among this category and decrease spread of infectious diseases the Institute of social support is badly needed. It is necessary to improve professional education of penitentiary officials and experts.

Tackling health issues should be comprehensive; a systematic approach to HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis, as well as drug use in prisons is needed! It is necessary to develop intersectoral cooperation between governmental agencies, international and non-governmental organizations which is an effective mechanism to fight spread of HIV.

HIV issues and aftercare for released persons are important for penitentiary institutions and public health. However, development of services for PLHIV in penitentiary institutions is a complex topic requiring specific capabilities, high motivation, sustainable funding and support from penitentiary authorities. Services in Estonian prisons are considered to be best practice regarding provision of psychosocial care and support for HIV positive people. This is an integrated mechanism that enables HIV-positive people to find help in any penal institution in Estonia. Estonian experience in cooperation between NGOs, PLHIV, the Ministry of Justice and prison authorities will allow to apply