2.5.15
Pictures of naked females in the charge office – Stein correctional
institution
During a visit to the Stein correctional institution in May 2014, the
commission noticed photos of naked females in a charge office. The
NPM demanded the immediate removal of these pictures, since
female prison guards could feel sexually harassed by such degrading
or disrespectful portrayals.
Objectionable photos in
the charge office
The compromising pictures in the charge office were promptly
removed and the prison warden was instructed to ensure that such
pictures are not hung anywhere in the entire institution.
The dignity of men and women must be protected in the workplace.
Conduct that affronts or impairs human dignity or intends to do so,
particularly derogatory or harmful statements and provocative
representations (posters, calendars, screen savers etc.), must be
halted. The offence of sexual harassment refers not only to the
protection of bodily integrity from unwanted sexual acts, but also to
mental vulnerability. Consequently, posting pictures of naked females
in the charge office can constitute sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is an affront to human dignity. Derogatory or hurtful statements and
depictions are also unacceptable and therefore must be avoided.
The employer must ensure that the sexual autonomy, sexual integrity and privacy of
employees are not endangered.
Therefore, the employer must ensure that no pictures of naked females are hung in charge
offices.
2.5.16
Positive findings
Exemplary conduct by a prison guard – Stein correctional institution,
Oberfucha field office
Eight prison guards and 29 male inmates. This is the occupancy of the
Oberfucha field office near Krems. The inmate cells are sparse,
shabby and cramped. However, inmates are able to individualise
them and there are temporary room partitions. The crowded quarters
are compensated for by great freedom of movement during the day.
Good atmosphere
despite shabby
premises
The tone taken with inmates and the consideration of personal
circumstances appear to be exemplary. The tone is supportive and the
inmates are treated with respect. The commission gained this
impression during its visit to the correctional institution in August 2014.
Respectful treatment
Oberfucha provides evidence of how open detention can work. One
particular case showed how well prison guards and inmates living
together can function despite the different roles. The day before the
commission’s visit, an inmate complained about a painful toothache.
Since the dentist was on holiday, the officer on duty drove the prisoner
Best practice
116
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