High-Level Debate on “A second chance: addressing the global prison challenge”
Ms. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie
Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service
General Assembly, United Nations HQ
June 17 2025
HIGH-LEVEL DEBATE ON “A SECOND CHANCE: ADDRESSING THE GLOBAL PRISON CHALLENGE” TO MARK THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ADOPTION OF THE UNITED NATIONS STANDARD MINIMUM RULES FOR THE TREATMENT OF PRISONERS (THE NELSON MANDELA RULES)
Thank you, Mr. Vice President,
Ghana welcomes the convening of this high-level debate and commends the President of the General Assembly and the UNODC for their leadership in marking the tenth anniversary of the Nelson Mandela Rules.
The Government of Ghana views this commemoration not as a ceremonial milestone, but as a timely opportunity to reflect on how we move from commitment to implementation, translating global standards into meaningful national reform. We fully align with the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Bangkok Rules, and the Tokyo Rules, which collectively provide a comprehensive framework for humane, rights-based correctional systems.
Mr. President,
Ghana’s Prison Service is undergoing a transformative shift from a model focused on containment to one rooted in correction, care, and second chances. This evolution is anchored in our national regulatory framework, including the Prisons Service Standing Orders and Administrative Regulations, and is informed by the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Bangkok Rules, and the Tokyo Rules.
Our efforts span several key areas:
First, we have made progress in separating men from women, and juveniles from adults. Nonetheless, limited infrastructure constrains our ability to implement full classification as envisioned by the Mandela Rules. To address this, three new camp prisons have been established to help reduce overcrowding and improve separation based on legal status and risk profile.
Second, our prison farms currently produce over 40 percent of daily rations. With further investment in mechanised agriculture, these farms will not only meet nutritional standards but also serve as effective vocational training centres for inmates.
Third, we have enhanced service delivery through the establishment of a Prisons Health Directorate and the upgrade of eight infirmaries, now including a fully accredited facility at the Nsawam Prison under the National Health Insurance Scheme. These reforms ensure non-discriminatory access to healthcare and have reduced out-of-pocket costs for inmates.
Fourth, the Ghana Prisons Service offers both formal and vocational training. Over 700 inmates have participated in national exams, while others are enrolled in diploma programmes through distance learning. Accredited skills training in carpentry, tailoring, welding, and aquaculture provides viable pathways for lawful reintegration after release.
Fifth, we are enhancing staff development through continuous training in human rights, conflict resolution, and correctional ethics. In partnership with UNODC, we are also developing a customised inmate classification tool to improve case management and ensure alignment with Mandela Rule 7.
Mr. President,
Challenges remain including budget shortfalls, overcrowding, and infrastructure deficits, but they do not deter us. Government support has been renewed, with plans to refurbish prisons, build modern facilities, and establish a Prisons Industrial Hub to equip inmates with income-generating skills.
We believe that international standards are not ends in themselves but mirrors reflecting what we aspire to become. Every prison reformed, every life redirected, stands as proof of what can be achieved when we move from theory to practice with courage and conviction.
In conclusion, Ghana reaffirms its conviction that imprisonment should be rehabilitative, not punitive. Every individual deserves a chance to rebuild their life with dignity and purpose. We will continue to collaborate with international partners to advance justice, human rights, and the rule of law, ensuring that every sentence offers a second chance.
I thank you.