Bangladesh: Inspector General of Prisons optimistic about transforming prison system into a modern correctional model with ICRC’s support

For many years, prisons in Bangladesh have been working to improve detention conditions, ensure humane treatment and implement changes that have a positive impact on detainees and the society at large. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stands alongside the Prisons Directorate of Bangladesh in pursuing this meaningful reform that upholds the dignity and rehabilitation of those in detention.
The recently held workshops “Transforming Prisons Into Modern Correctional Facilities” and “Humane Prison Management for Senior Prison Officers” illustrate the cooperation between the Prisons Directorate and the ICRC and their shared vision to support the transition of Bangladesh's prison system from traditional frameworks to modern correctional facilities. The workshops emphasized aligning management approaches with the principles of safety, human dignity and humane treatment, in line with the Mandela Rules. The participants included Superintendents, Jailers and Deputy Jailers from across Bangladesh.

At the end of these workshops, the Inspector General of Prisons highlighted some of the significant steps needed to modernize prison management in Bangladesh:
Focus on transforming the country’s prison system into a modern correctional model
Bangladesh has been striving to improve its prison system for a long time. Achieving this transformation requires complete support from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the preparedness of the prison department and cooperation with various partners. The goal is to adopt a rehabilitative approach that equips inmates for successful reintegration into society upon their release.
Role of civil society and society at large in supporting the transformation
Society plays a critical role in changing perceptions about ex-inmates. The stigma of "once a criminal, always a criminal" must be replaced with a mindset of giving second chances. Instead of being marginalized, former inmates should be given a fair opportunity to reintegrate smoothly within the community at large. External support, including legal, social and economic opportunities, can enhance this process.
Role of prison leadership involved in the transformation
Prison leadership has a pivotal role in fostering a rehabilitative environment. Officers in charge of prison management must train their staff to adopt corrective approaches, create opportunities for inmate development and ensure staff are equipped to handle inmates compassionately. Effective leadership will drive long-term success in transforming the system.
Impact of the transformation on the daily lives of detainees and prison staff
For detainees, it means improved access to health care, better living conditions and skill-building opportunities for purposeful reintegration. For prison staff, it offers better training, improved working conditions and a safer, more supportive environment, benefiting both inmates and staff.
Authorities’ vision for the future of corrections in the country
Envisioning a correctional system that shifts its focus from punishment to rehabilitation. Prisons should serve as centres for self-development, reducing recidivism and easing the burden on facilities. This approach will prepare inmates to face life’s challenges after their release.
Anticipated challenges and plans in implementing modern correctional practices
Key challenges include financial and resource constraints, legislative amendments and the need for partnerships. Government investment, support for legislative reforms and cooperation with civil society and partners like the ICRC are essential. Training inmates and providing them with opportunities upon their release are also critical for ensuring successful reintegration and reducing the likelihood of reoffence.

Participation in the 42nd Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators
The ICRC supports Bangladesh prison authorities’ ongoing efforts to promote safe and humane management of detention facilities through capacity-building initiatives, technical support and facilitation of international cooperation.
In line with this objective, the Prisons Directorate of Bangladesh, with the support of the ICRC’s regional delegation in Dhaka, participated in the 42nd Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators (APCCA) held in Hong Kong from 17 to 21 November 2024. This event brought together 140 delegates from 29 countries across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss challenges and advancements in correctional systems and to foster regional cooperation.
The Bangladesh delegation, led by the Honourable Inspector General of Prisons, Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain, and the Jail Superintendent of Cox's Bazar, Mr Zabed Mehedi, presented the country’s commitment to modernize its penitentiary system into a correctional system and align with global best practices.
The conference, which was centred on the theme "Collaboration for Sustainable and High-Quality Development", provided an ideal platform for Brigadier General Hossain to share insights into the transformation of Bangladesh’s prison system. In his presentation, he outlined the challenges faced by the penitentiary sector and highlighted the reforms that are being implemented to transition from traditional custodial models to modern correctional frameworks. Furthermore, he emphasized key initiatives such as capacity-building, staff development and training programmes as key enablers of this change.
Participating in the APCCA was also an opportunity for the Bangladesh delegation to interact with peers from other countries in the region to share and exchange experiences and best practices, thus paving the way for greater cooperation to enhance prison management.
The shared goal of developing a correctional system that ensures security and prioritizes the welfare and reintegration of detainees is central to the partnership between the Bangladesh prison authorities and the ICRC. The workshops and the conference marked another step forward towards fostering progressive, human-centred correctional systems in Bangladesh and across the region.
