Ghana, November 2024 – Ghana is on the cusp of a historic reform: the introduction of its first parole system. The Parole Regulations are tabled before Parliament; once passed into law, the parole system will provide a structured mechanism to conditionally release prisoners who meet specific criteria, allowing them to reintegrate into society under supervision.
The planning for the introduction of parole offers a moment of reflection and reimagination for Ghana’s justice system. To support national authorities towards a successful rollout, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in partnership with the Ghana Prisons Service and funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, organized a sensitization workshop, held in November 2024.
This workshop was more than just a training: it was essential preparation for the introduction of a reform that holds the potential to decongest prisons, reduce the risk of reoffending and enhance community safety, as well as to transform the lives of prisoners.
Building on international standards and norms such as the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for Non-Custodial Measures (Tokyo Rules) and the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-Custodial Measures for Women Offenders (Bangkok Rules), the workshop was designed to address every phase of parole—from its legislative underpinnings to its practical implementation.
The workshop also highlighted the numerous positive effects of an effective parole system, including the fact that in some countries it effectively contributes to lowering the risk of reoffending.
Hopes among participants were high. “The parole system will help mitigate prison overcrowding by enabling the early release of suitable inmates. It holds the potential for cost savings for government and improving living conditions within the prisons,” remarked DDP Edward Acquah, Greater- Accra Prisons Commander and participant in the sensitization workshop.
“I envision a parole system that prioritizes rehabilitation, reintegration and restorative justice,” said DSP Mabel Nkrumah.
Some participants had more specific thoughts on the potential of the new system, linked to the particular needs of women offenders. “Parole can help mitigate the impact of incarcerating women, many of whom are primary caregivers, by reuniting families and offering the support needed for a smooth transition,” noted Supt. Serwaa Appiah.
Women in prison often face unique challenges, including caring responsibilities, histories of domestic and sexual abuse, and heightened stigma upon release. They also struggle with limited social and economic support. “Ghana’s parole system must address these realities, creating pathways that empower women to rebuild their lives and reintegrate successfully.”
The implementation of a parole system with a specific focus also on gender sensitive needs would further align Ghana’s criminal justice system with international standards and norms, such as the Bangkok Rules.
Guided by the criminal justice policy specialist Dr. Shane Bryans, officers examined best practices from established parole systems, offering valuable insights and lessons learned. Dr Bryans encouraged participants to think critically about how to adapt existing models to Ghana’s specific needs and align Ghana’s framework with international standards. Participants collaboratively tested model provisions and procedures and developed an implementation strategy for the parole system in Ghana.
The recently developed ‘Together for Rehabilitation’ Tool (T4R) for assessing prisoners’ risks and rehabilitation needs, designed and implemented with support from UNODC, was identified as a key resource for the implementation of parole. Participants explored how this tool would provide critical data to inform parole decisions, ensuring that the process is evidence-based and transparent.
While optimism was high, participants didn’t shy away from discussing the challenges ahead. Resources, training, and public perception were all highlighted as potential hurdles.
“A lot of work needs to be done. This includes further training for staff and customization of the parole system,” emphasized ASP John Bosco Zume.
There was widespread agreement that community collaboration and managing public perception are key to successful implementation.
Participants envisioned a system grounded in fairness, transparency and rehabilitation, aligned with both the Tokyo and Bangkok Rules. The introduction of parole in Ghana would represent a shift in how the country views the criminal justice system, offering offenders a chance at rehabilitation and reintegration into society. This move not only aligns with international human rights standards but also provides a pathway for reducing overcrowding in prisons. It will be essential to ensure that proper safeguards are in place and that all stakeholders are on board, from policy makers to communities.
As Ghana prepares for the next steps—finalizing the legislation processes and rolling out the Parole system—UNODC remains committed to providing technical assistance and support. This workshop has been a testament to Ghana’s readiness to embrace meaningful prison and penal reform.
Mabel Nkrumah summed up the path anticipated by many of the participants: “With continued capacity building and stakeholder collaboration, Ghana's parole system can become a model for Africa.”
