RECOMMENDATIONS To the Government he government of Benin is to be congratulated for the steps it has taken 1 towards addressing the serious problem of overcrowding in prisons in Benin. The construction of new prisons and on-going efforts in the same direction is highly commendable. The premium placed on respect for and protection of human rights is also worthy of praise. It is a positive step to create a Division for Human Rights in the Ministry of Justice. The recommendations which follow are given to strengthen government's efforts in trying to give meaning to the enjoyment of rights by citizens, residents and all in Benin. 1. The care of the health needs of prisoners should be given the most urgent attention. 2. Poor health may partly result from prison conditions, of which overcrowding is a major problem. While applauding government for the construction of new prisons, lesser outlay of capital through release of prisoners will contribute positively towards the solution of the problem. A committee, preferably, presidential to reflect the urgency of the issue and the importance which government is seen to attach to respect of rights, may visit prisons to advise the Head of State and President on inmates deserving amnesty. These may be found to include: a) Very old, sick or weak prisoners. b) Those who have been on remand for a long time. c) Those who have served a long sentence, and do not seem to pose any danger to security. 3. Corruption in the judiciary and the police are concerns which should be addressed. 4. Education against mob justice should be initiated and sustained. 5. Training of guards, as is envisaged in the national plan of action will address the issue of good relationship between prisoners and guards. While many prisoners testified to excellent relationship of the type just mentioned, allegations of torture, illustrated from this report should be discouraged and eliminated. 49 48