NCJ Number
80057
Date Published
1979
Length
292 pages
Annotation
A number of correctional reforms initiated in 1973 in Sweden have resulted in the need for reorganization and redefinition of roles of the National Board of Corrections (KVO) and of correction agencies at the local level.
Abstract
Among these reforms are the new policy on greater use of open prisons; the mandate to ensure a gradual shift of inmates from old to new institutions, the increased responsibility and flexibility given corrections administrators concerning inmate programs and opportunities for employment and training; and the decentralization movement. Later reforms that have also had significant impact were the elimination of juvenile imprisonment and detention. A committee made up of KVO members examined the question in terms of the current status of the corrections hierarchy and organization, the status of and regulations regarding inmate employment, technical developments within the corrections area, and the experiences of the National Corrections Department as a result of its move from Stockholm, part of the decentralization movement. Policy, organization, and role and responsibility issues are addressed from the standpoint of the budget; personnel; local versus national corrections organizations' jurisidiction, structural relationships among local, regional, and national corrections departments and facilities; public relations; and planning. The committee has given particular consideration to the functions related to safety and security, prisoner transport, inmate education and training, employment, recreation and leisure activities, release decisions, mental health and medical services, and cooperation with industry. For the most part, the committee sees greater responsibility for functional areas being transferred to local institutions, while the national organization acts as more of an adviser and overseer. Tabular and graphic data are included.