21-02-2025

Partners from Norway visit Marijampolė and Kaunas prisons

On 18 - 21 February, a delegation from Kongsvinger Prison in Norway visited Marijampolė and Kaunas prisons of the Lithuanian Prison Service to exchange best practices and strengthen the application of the dynamic security approach in Lithuanian correctional facilities.

As part of ongoing bilateral cooperation, Norwegian representatives Kim Weraas, Morten Hansen, Anne Britt Snare, and Tommy Høistad gained an in-depth understanding of the daily work of Lithuanian correctional officers. Their visit included an overview of operations at Marijampolė Prison, its halfway house, open houses, and the Cynology Centre. Additionally, they explored Kaunas Prison and its halfway house in Domeikava.

The visit provided an opportunity to assess progress and outline future improvements. Discussions were led by Mindaugas Kairys, Director General of the Lithuanian Prison Service, Ligita Valalytė, Chancellor of the Lithuanian Prison Service, and Torunn Hasler, Adviser to the Directorate of the Norwegian Prison Service. Together, they reflected on internship experiences in both Norwegian and Lithuanian prisons. The Norwegian delegation encouraged their Lithuanian colleagues to take pride in their achievements and remain committed to their goals.

Further visits are anticipated as part of continued cooperation between the two countries.

The visit was conducted within the framework of programs funded by the EEA and Norway Grants.