These factors are particularly important from the perspective of the prevention of VERLT,
as intolerant attitudes and a lack of cultural sensitivity contribute to feelings of isolation
and stigmatization, and to a search for identity (especially in the case of children) that may
437
lead to the path of VERLT or undermine disengagement efforts. It can also exacerbate
other risk factors prisoners are exposed to, including in relation to safety and security,
and it can increase prisoners’ vulnerability to abuse. The necessary qualities and skills
of staff involved in tasks related to preventing and countering VERLT include the ability
to challenge problematic thinking in a constructive, rather than confrontational manner,
to develop a collaborative relationship with prisoners and to demonstrate resilience,
438
empathy and sensitivity to prisoners’ values, beliefs and backgrounds. When dealing
with children, staff should have the capacity to be positive role models and be skilled in
439
building trust.
Training
The UN Nelson Mandela Rules clearly state that the minimum requirements for training
should include the concept of dynamic security, as well as principles concerning the use
of force and instruments of restraint, and the management of violent offenders with due
440
consideration of preventive and defusing techniques, such as negotiation and mediation.
The dynamic security approach, whereby “staff prioritize the creation and maintenance of
441
everyday communication and interaction with prisoners based on professional ethics”
has already been adopted in a number of OSCE participating States and is of particular
relevance when dealing with VERLT. It creates an atmosphere encouraging prisoners to
speak with staff and may contribute to them re-examining some of their thinking, which is
key as part of the disengagement process. Open communication, professionalism and a
system to manage productive staff-prisoner relationships will contribute to building trust
442
and creating a safe and secure environment that facilitates rehabilitation.
Staff should receive specific training if their responsibilities include dealing with children
443
and women, including on how to deal with trauma conditions, relevant national
legislation, regulations and policies, international and regional instruments, the rights and
duties of prison staff, dynamic security and first aid, including the detection of mental
444
health conditions. In addition to training prior to entering service, continuous, in-service
437 EU RAN, “Dealing with Radicalization in a Prison and Probation Context: Practitioners Working Paper”,
note 150, p. 3.
438 Council of Europe, “Council of Europe Handbook”, op. cit., note 2, paras. 172-173.
439 Global Center on Cooperative Security and ICCT, “Correcting the Course: Advancing Juvenile Justice
Principles for Children Convicted of Violent Extremism Offenses”, op. cit., note 187, pp. 20-21.
440 UN Nelson Mandela Rules, op. cit., note 13, Rule 76. For a detailed analysis of staff recruitment and training
requirements under the UN Nelson Mandela Rules, see ODIHR & PRI, Guidance Document on the Nelson
Mandela Rules, op. cit., note 10, Chapter 1.7.
441 Council of Europe, “Guidelines for Prison and Probation Services regarding Radicalisation and Violent
Extremism”, op. cit., note 56, I. Terminology
442 “Current Challenges of Sentenced Extremists for Prison Regimes”, Ex Post Paper RAN Prison and
Probation & EuroPris meeting “Prison regimes”, 19 December 2019, pp. 4-5.
443 The Beijing Rules require that all personnel working in juvenile prisons receive a minimum training in law,
sociology, psychology, criminology and behavioural sciences, UN Beijing Rules, op. cit., note 126, Rule
22 – commentary.
444 PRI, Mental Health in Prison: A Short Guide for Prison Staff, (London: PRI, 2018); PRI and Prison Reform
Trust UK, Women in Prison: Mental Health and Well-Being A Guide for Prison Staff, (London: PRI, 2020).
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