Alpha News

Justice Minister Ready for Radical Changes, What Reforms are Planned

Published January 19, 2026, 19:22

The Minister of Justice presented a comprehensive plan to reform the Central Prisons, aiming to improve detention conditions and strengthen the correctional nature of the institution. The plan includes the official renaming of the prisons to Correctional Institution, changing the name of prison guards to correctional officers or employees, and introducing new criteria for the selection and evaluation of personnel. Specifically, it is proposed to hire prison directors with five-year contracts, which could be terminated if they do not meet their duties. Also, 90 new prison guard positions will be announced, which will receive specialized training before taking office, while existing personnel will also undergo skills upgrading. A significant part of the plan concerns addressing the overcrowding in prisons, where serious and minor offenders coexist. In addition, the operation of a mobile phone detection system is being promoted, with the aim of combating organized crime within prisons. However, there are concerns about the potential violation of prisoners' rights and the need to ensure the rule of law. The plan has received positive reactions from MPs and organizations dealing with prisoners' rights, who recognize the need for radical changes in the correctional system. However, there are also reservations about the effectiveness of the measures and the need for adequate funding and staff support.