THE POLISH PENAL SYSTEM AS A MODEL It is important to underscore that the Polish Prison system does not claim that reform is complete, but that the process may serve as a good example of a positive transformation. Despite facing the same economic and social problems as other Central and Eastern European countries and many newly independent States, the Polish Prison Administration has been able to demonstrate many achievements in a short period of time. They have been able to renovate buildings, create positive work for prisoners, introduce new prison rules concerning space, cooperate with outside organizations and experts, and introduce educational and training programs for prisoners despite very limited resources. In recent years a disturbing trend has developed which will determine the future of Polish prison reform. In the past four years, the prison population has increased from 40,000 to over 63,000-one thousand more than capacity. Again, the system is at a turning point and is facing overcrowding. The big difference today is that prison officials and their staffs have bluntly expressed their disappointment, have blamed the State for violating its obligations and are actively seeking a resolution of this potential setback. Through new programs, Parliamentary debates, and international symposia, the Polish prison administration continues to make numerous efforts to continue the process of reform and provide a good model for the countries of Eastern Europe and other newly independent States. About the Author Dr. Monika Platek is an Associate Professor of the Warsaw University Law Faculty and an Adviser to the ODIHR Program for Coordinated Legal Support on prison reform initiatives and correctional officer training programs in OSCE Participating States. 24 OSCE ODIHR Bulletin Vol. 4 No. 3