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Training of trainers and pilot units on classification and evaluation of detainees in prisons

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The number of people arrested and detained for offenses related to terrorism and violent extremism is constantly increasing. In this context, prison administrations in West Africa face multiple challenges in terms of managing prisoners.

As a continuation of the capacity building activities carried out with the support of the Kingdom of Norway, the Research and Awareness Unit and the Justice Section of the Regional Office for West and Central Africa of UNODC gathered prison staff from the beneficiary States of the project on the prevention of violent extremism in prisons (Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Togo, Senegal, and Guinea) in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, from November 24 to December 2, 2002. This regional meeting resulted in the training of trainers and the establishment of pilot units dedicated to risk assessment and classification of inmates in five prisons in the region. 

 

According to the UNODC Regional Representative for West and Central Africa, Dr. Amado Philip de Andrés, "risk assessment and classification of detainees allows for better management of violent extremist inmates and prevention of radicalization to violence in prison”.
The training of the trainers and the members of the pilot units, which included prison officers and social workers, was complemented by practical exercises at the Maison d’Arrêt et de Correction d’Abidjan (MACA). Participants interviewed 19 inmates (including four women) and were able to implement the interview techniques learned during the training. The principles of classification and risk assessment were applied to determine the dangerousness of the detainees and to make final recommendations regarding their management, in accordance with the Nelson Mandela rules. 
Following the interviews, the UNODC delegation visited the MACA building dedicated to women: during this visit, the prison staff presented the reintegration activities currently being implemented in the penitentiary establishment.
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