European Prison Worker?

Introduction/Research Problem: The diversity of the European countries is not only reflected in their distinct history and culture, but also in the organisation of prison systems, aims of punishment, size and conditions within prisons, characteristics of prison populations, and the structure of the prison staff. Objectives: The paper aims to present the development of punishment and prison services in Europe and highlight similarities and differences between European prison systems. Methods: Delineation of the historical development of prisons in European countries is based on a literature review, while a comparative method was used to highlight similarities and differences in the organisation of prison systems. Results: The organisation, structure, and characteristics of prison staff in European countries are complex and diverse. The Council of Europe, CPT, and ECHR provided strong foundations for the future development of “European penology”, however distinct historical, cultural and legal development in European countries present a counterweight for possible uniform development of prison services across Europe. Conclusion: Universal standards for protecting human rights in prisons must be adopted by European countries and respected in practice, but every other aspect of the implementation of prison sentences should be individually tailored to the specific needs of an individual country, including the organisation of the prison service