Lithuanian Prison Service Opens Second TOG Unit at Vilnius Prison
The Lithuanian Prison Service has inaugurated a new TOG unit at Vilnius Prison, further advancing its commitment to rehabilitating individuals prone to re-offending. Based on a successful model from Norway, this marks the second such unit in the country’s correctional system, signifying a crucial step forward in offender rehabilitation and public safety.
The newly established TOG unit at Vilnius Prison, which has already begun operations with five inmates, builds upon the proven success of the first TOG unit introduced at Pravieniškės Prison No. 1 in December 2022.
The TOG unit in Vilnius Prison, which already houses five inmates, has been opened following the successful takeover of the model that has been in place since December 2022 only in Pravieniškės Prison No 1.
This initiative is part of the advanced Norwegian Correctional System Programme, which emphasizes teamwork, behavioral transformation, and enhanced working conditions for staff. The TOG model integrates a dynamic security system that prioritizes both inmate care and staff well-being. By focusing on the professional development of prison personnel, improving infrastructure, and fostering effective communication between inmates and staff, the program enhances rehabilitation outcomes and encourages positive change among inmates.
“Today, we are proud to open another TOG unit in Lithuania. The success of the existing unit has demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach. I extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to this achievement and helped turn our vision into reality,” said Mindaugas Kairys, Director General of the Lithuanian Prison Service, during the opening ceremony.
The opening event was attended by a distinguished delegation from Norway, led by Kim Ekhaugen, Head of the International Cooperation Unit at the Norwegian Directorate of Correctional Services. Representatives from the Ministry of Justice, as well as Prison and Probation services, also took part, underscoring the collaborative efforts involved in implementing the TOG program in Lithuania.
TOG, which translates to "train" in Norwegian, symbolizes the program’s mission of guiding re-offenders towards successful reintegration into society. The initiative fosters coordinated efforts between prison and probation services, ensuring continuous support for inmates throughout their rehabilitation journey. Probation officers collaborate closely with prison staff, facilitating structured reintegration plans and monitoring behavioral changes to minimize re-offense risks. A recent Measuring the Quality of Prison Life (MQPL) survey conducted by the Lithuanian Prison Service revealed that inmates in the TOG unit report significantly higher satisfaction with their quality of life compared to those in standard prison units. The TOG model has proven to be an effective tool in reducing recidivism through personalized rehabilitation strategies and close cooperation with external resocialization partners.
The program for re-offenders (the TOG) was originally launched in Norway in 2001. The TOG unit at Vilnius Prison is supported by funding from the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.
Last updated: 02-04-2025
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