Council of Europe “impressed” by prison reforms

Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Nils Muiznieks is "impressed” by the steps taken by Georgia to reform its penitentiary system.

Muiznieks held a conclusive press-conference today after a six-day visit to Georgia.

"I am greatly impressed by the changes in the penitentiary system that was implemented after the shocking scandal of prisons. A number of people who have committed crimes of torture and inhumane treatment are already imprisoned. It is essential that these efforts continue,” he said.

"In my opinion, the mass amnesty reduced the number of inmates in prisons and better living conditions were offered to the fewer remaining prisoners. I also welcome the transparency that was implemented in the penitentiary system and the improvement of medical care in prisons,” Muiznieks added.

He also commented on the Ministry of Corrections investigation into Vano Merabishvili’s statement of his alleged blackmail and mistreatment, while in prison. The investigation was inconclusive as vital video recorded images were not saved and stored.

"I think this situation was resolved in a way that it raised more doubts that inappropriate behaviour might have occurred,” he said.

"It seems that there is no ordered approach. There are no strict rules and regulations on what period of time the recordings of the prison cameras should be kept.”

Muiznieks noted that it was important that all complaints regarding inappropriate behavior or violation should be investigated quickly and efficiently. In Merabishvili’s case there was "some delay”, he said.

Meanwhile the Council of Europe Commissioner positively evaluated the steps taken to prevent illegal spying (watching and listening) of Georgian citizens.

"I appreciate the fact that illegal recordings were destroyed and the police department responsible for these actions was demolished. I also welcome the guaranties that such bad practice will not continue. Particularly I would like to highlight the importance of the Data Protection Inspector Institute establishment,” he said.