-36 the possibility for their transfer in their countries of origin for execution of their sentences.61 This is an essential requirement for their social integration and for the exercise of their right to family life. They also stress on non-discrimination in the imposition of remand measures, sentencing, treatment and possibilities for early release, as well as in providing work and education. Another group of standards focuses on contact with the outside world. Foreign prisoners should have prompt access to their diplomatic agents and those who are refugees – to UN and other bodies for their protection.62 Foreign prisoners should be allowed extended visits and other contacts with family and closed persons. National authorities should facilitate such contacts through provision of information and through assistance with costs of communicating with the outside world.63 Special measures should be taken to facilitate contact of foreign prisoners with their children. To address the cultural and religious needs of the foreign prisoners, a number of standards require taking into consideration of their preferences in providing accommodation, hygiene, clothing, nutrition and health care in the prisons.64 Their linguistic needs should be addressed by providing information and interpretation in criminal, administrative and disciplinary proceedings.65 We can add – this must also be applied in relation to health services. Foreign prisoners should be allowed access to print and electronic media in their language. At the same time, they should be encouraged to learn the local language and to study the local culture and traditions.66 Unlike the “soft law” standards, the ECtHR took a rather restrictive approach to the international transfer of foreign prisoners. In the case of Palfreeman v. Bulgaria of 2017, it took the view that states have no obligation to consider international transfer in light of Article 8 of the ECHR. It also held that the ECHR does not grant prisoners the right to 61. See e.g.: European Prison Rules, Rule 37.5; Recommendation CM/Rec(2012)12, para 15.3. 62. European Prison Rules, rules 37.1, 37.2. 63. Recommendation CM/Rec(2012)12, Section 22. 64. Ibid., sections 17, 18, 19, 20, 31. 65. Ibid., para 8. 66. Ibid., para 29.1.