CAT/OP/UKR/1 B. Pre-trial detention facilities (SIZOs) 1. Conditions of detention (a) Overcrowding 97. The SPT observed high levels of overcrowding in many SIZO cells, posing serious health and hygiene concerns. For example, in one SIZO, 34 people were being held in a cell measuring 6.5 x 5 metres, with only 26 beds available. At the same time some detainees were held in superior cells with much better material conditions and less overcrowding, for which no satisfactory explanation could be given. 98. The SPT reiterates its recommendations made under Section III.D above that the use and length of pre-trial detention in Ukraine be reduced, and in addition recommends that the State party take urgent steps to reduce overcrowding in the SIZOs. A sufficient number of beds should be provided in accordance with international standards.47 Differences of treatment are only acceptable if based on formal objective criteria, and should be recorded in a transparent manner in the registers. (b) Material conditions 99. The SPT considers the general material conditions of the SIZOs to be inadequate as regards minimum floor space per detainee, lighting, heating and ventilation. 48 The general levels of hygiene, access to clean water, and the conditions of toilet facilities (including the lack of privacy when using the toilet) in the SIZOs gave rise to equal concern. 100. Interviewees further indicated that they were not provided with toiletries necessary for personal health and cleanliness and had to rely on their families or the charity of other detainees for such essentials, and that a weekly shower was not guaranteed. 101. The SPT recommends that the State party prioritize the improvement of general hygiene, access to water and sanitation, and access to personal hygiene articles in SIZOs, in accordance with international standards. 49 102. In addition, the Ukrainian authorities should conduct a nation-wide audit into the material conditions of SIZOs, with the aim of planning other progressive material improvements, in particular with regard to minimum floor space, lighting, heating and ventilation. (c) Regime and activities 103. The SPT was concerned by the very strict regime in SIZOs, especially in light of the length of pre-trial detention. Although all detainees were meant to have one hour daily exercise outside of their cells, the SPT heard from many detainees that this was not always so. In addition, the exercise yards were often small, dilapidated and bare. Some, but not all, were equipped with rudimentary exercise bars or benches. Many were covered in such a way that there was no view of the sky, yet somehow contrived to let in the elements. The SPT was equally concerned by the general lack of meaningful activities for detainees held in SIZOs. 104. The SPT recommends that the Ukrainian authorities ensure that the SIZOs respect the right of all detainees to have to a minimum of one hour daily exercise. 50 47 48 49 50 18 Standard Minimum Rules, Rule 19; and European Prison Rules, Rule 21. Standard Minimum Rules, Rules 10 and 11. Standard Minimum Rules, Rules 12 and 13. Standard Minimum Rules, Rule 21.