Table 3.

Global Implications for Penal Reform and Monitoring of Standards.

Penal policy

Address the invisible nature of women in prison and correctional policies at the government and regional levels. Enhance visibility of the Bangkok Rules and the rights assurances of women in policy and regional reports. Strive to ensure sex segregation, minimum standards of care and reasonable safe accommodation are provided. Strive to eliminate all forms of custodial violence.

Technical assistance for enhanced prison systems

Address the invisible nature of women in prison and correctional procedures through staff training and awareness raising. Support vigilance against all forms of custodial violence in practice and facilitate disclosure for those affected. Ensure all who work in the custodial setting are aware of women’s exposure to GBVAW, exploitation, and trauma-related pathways into crime (largely poverty or drug-related) Ensure that incarcerated women have access to gender-specific medical care, trauma- informed, and trauma-responsive mental health supports. Ensure that noncustodial sentences are applied where possible for minor or nonviolent offenses, alongside other prison decongestion measures.

Research, surveillance, and monitoring

Encourage continued research activity in the field of prison health worldwide. Encourage continued independent inspections, monitoring, and surveillance of prison standards worldwide.