01-07-2024

Lithuanian Prison Service meets with Ukrainian Department for the Execution of Criminal Punishments

On 29 June, representatives of the Lithuanian Prison Service engaged in a significant meeting with colleagues from the Ukrainian Department for the Execution of Criminal Punishments. The event took place at Kaunas Prison, with additional visit to the Kaunas Prison Halfway House in Domeikava, showcasing the activities and forthcoming plans for improving the Lithuanian Prison Service.

Serhiy Grechaniuk, Head of the Department for the Execution of Criminal Punishments of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine, Vyacheslav Bosakevych, Adviser of the Head of the Department for the Execution of Criminal Punishments, and Maksym Sykal, Head of the Central regional unit of the Department for the Execution of Criminal Punishments came on a visit to Lithuania where they received a warm welcome by Mindaugas Kairys, Director General of the Lithuanian Prison Service, Chancellor Ligita Valalytė, and other officials.

During the discussions, the Ukrainian representatives provided an in-depth presentation on the structure and operations of prisons in Ukraine, particularly focusing on the challenges and adaptations required during the ongoing war. They shared valuable insights on the changes implemented, the difficulties encountered, and the strategies employed to address these issues. Their advice and observations covered crucial aspects such as preparation of prisons in the Republic of Lithuania for potential wartime conditions, provision of supplies, evacuation procedures, and staff training.

Both parties expressed a commitment to continued bilateral cooperation, with plans for further meetings to explore additional areas of mutual interest and support.