Using International Experience of Rehabilitation of Convicts under the Conditions of the Russian Penal System

Introduction: This article focuses on the detailed study of the current issue of the rehabilitation of the individuals who have served their criminal sentences within the criminal justice systems of various countries, which is crucial for ensuring public security, and reducing the rate of recidivism.

To achieve these goals, the comprehensive research has been conducted, involving the thorough analysis of the overseas penitentiary and post-penitentiary practices, to identify the most efficient models for reintegrating convicted individuals into society.

Methodology and Materials: The research is based on a combination of general scientific methods, e.g., analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, description, and analogy, and specific scientific methods of cognition, including sociological and functional approaches allowing for the comprehensive study of the subject matter. Some specific methods, in particular, the comparative legal technique, played a key role in the study, as they enable to conduct the thorough comparative analysis of the criminal justice systems and legislative mechanisms of various jurisdictions. As the element of the comparative analysis, the approaches used in the criminal enforcement practices of the United States of America, the French Republic, Canada, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the Swiss Confederation have been closely studied and systematized. The study covers both the general principles of the functioning of penitentiary institutions, and specific measures aimed at social adaptation, deradicalization, and prevention of recidivism among individuals released from places of detention, including post-prison support programs, and specialized “re-entry programs.”

Research Results and Discussion: The results of the study demonstrate a significant variety, and proven effectiveness of the overseas approaches to rehabilitation. The study identifies the best practices characterized by their complexity, the focus on the goal, as well as the high level of humanization, which confirms their relevance and feasibility in the context of modern penitentiary reform. Special attention is given to the measures aimed at overcoming the stigmatization of former convicts, developing their professional skills, forming a stable anti-criminal attitude, and integrating them into public life.

Conclusions: The practical significance of the work consists in developing the substantiated recommendations for optimizing the Russian penal system, and relevant legislative acts. The measures proposed, based on foreign analogues, include improving the legal regulation of resocialization processes, and introducing innovative approaches to working with former convicts. The purpose of these recommendations is to increase the effectiveness of preventing recidivism and ensuring the sustainable reintegration of released individuals into the legal and social space of the Russian Federation.

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