Implementation of the Minister of Law and Human Rights Regulation Number 32 of 2018 on Special Treatment for Elderly Detainees and Inmates

Elderly inmates are a vulnerable group with special physical, mental, and social needs. Treating them equally with younger, more physically capable inmates without taking their condition into account may lead to violations of human rights. Based on this concern, the Ministry of Law and Human Rights issued Regulation No. 32 of 2018 concerning special treatment for elderly detainees and inmates. This study aims to examine how the regulation is implemented at Class III Dharmasraya Correctional Facility and identify the obstacles encountered in its application. The research employs an empirical legal method with a socio-legal (juridical-sociological) approach. Data were collected through field studies, including interviews with prison staff and elderly inmates at Class III Dharmasraya Correctional Facility, as well as literature reviews of relevant regulations and academic sources. The findings reveal that the implementation of Regulation No. 32 of 2018 at Class III Dharmasraya has included personality and self-reliance development programs, such as spiritual activities and training in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries. However, implementation remains suboptimal due to several obstacles, including overcrowding, limited human resources, inadequate equipment to support the rehabilitation programs, and insufficient facilities and infrastructure. The study concludes that, although Class III Dharmasraya Correctional Facility has made efforts to implement special treatment for elderly inmates by Regulation No. 32 of 2018, various limitations hinder its optimal realization. Therefore, greater attention and support from the government and policymakers are necessary to ensure the full protection of the rights of elderly inmates.