«SMALL» PROBLEMS OF LARGE-SCALE REFORM OF THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM

Abstract

The article analyzes the situation in Ukraine with the reform of the penitentiary system. It is indicated that Ukraine is currently undergoing a process of radical transformations in all spheres of life, therefore, the reform of the penitentiary system should be considered mainly as part of the overall reform process in the country. That part is special when the main task is the protection of human rights and freedoms. Despite the positive shifts towards humanization, a significant number of individuals are condemned to the penalty of imprisonment. Now the operational situation in the places of restraint remains difficult: the number of special contingents, despite the holding of amnesties, is decreasing slowly, the criminogenic composition of convicts has deteriorated.

The examples from the so-called «transitional period» are given, which give grounds to assert that the process of reforming the system of the execution of punishments has unreasonably delayed. It is indicated that only now there are positive steps that give reason to understand: the state policy on the execution and serving of punishments requires a comprehensive approach, which requires studying past experience, taking into account mistakes made, uniting the scientific community and practitioners.

Marked issues relating to areas of reform of the system. The most promising and most important areas of reformist changes in the application of punishments are the following: comprehensive reform of the punitive-corrective effect on convicts; uniting the efforts of scientists and practitioners to develop a new criminal-executive legislation; respect for the rights and freedoms of the person who committed the crime and is serving a sentence; high-quality staff renewal and professional training; religious influence on convicts; scientific support of reform activities; the presence of investigative units; ensuring proper funding of the penal system.