BASIS IN INTERNATIONAL INSTRUMENTS Exercise: Using the Compilation of Instruments, the trainees should work in pairs in order to discover the basis for each of these principles. Trainees should also be encouraged to discover the foundations in regional instruments. Ask for the information to be reported back to the group. IMPLICATIONS The information contained here is directly relevant to the work of prison staff. In some jurisdictions these practices may not be seen to be abhorrent; in others they will be. It is likely that this session will generate energetic discussion. Allow time for comment and question but ensure that you always return to the imperative of the instruments. PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS The practical recommendations in the corresponding chapter of the Manual should be presented to the trainees. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION A list of topics is provided in the Manual. Methodology: The trainees should be divided into groups of four or five and be given specific topics to discuss. A number of topics require the trainees to discuss the arrangements in their own jurisdictions. Facilitators should encourage a comparison of practices, as described, with the requirements of the instruments. Constant reference to the presentations during the session should be encouraged. Points to be highlighted/suggested areas for discussion: 39. – If prison staff behave in a reasonable and predictable manner prisoners are likely to feel safer and will be more willing to comply with the requirements of the regime; 39. – Prison staff must ensure that all the rules and regulations applying to prisoners are on display so that prisoners can be aware of what is expected of them and what is likely to happen if they do not comply; 39. – Weapons should not be on display because they create a culture of fear; 39. – Weapons may be used in certain circumstances but only as a last resort and when there is danger of serious injury or death if a situation is not dealt with swiftly; 39. – Prison staff should take pride in being able to deal with difficult situations by using their skills rather than by resorting to violence; 39. – The method available to a prisoner of registering a complaint against a member of staff must be confidential. The complaint must also be dealt with by someone other than the person being complained about; 42