COVID-19 Pandemic Threatening Prison Population

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Criminology
• Human Rights

Background:

• The prison population represents a vulnerable demographic during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
• Incarcerated individuals often face disadvantages in social distancing and present higher rates of comorbidities, linked to global punitive policies.
• Despite universal human rights principles advocating for healthy living conditions and healthcare access for all, prison environments impede these rights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review fundamental principles and recommendations for managing the COVID-19 outbreak within correctional facilities.
• To analyze the specific circumstances within Turkey's prison system preceding the shift to a "controlled social life" phase.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of existing principles and recommendations related to public health in correctional settings during pandemics.
• It includes a situational analysis of Turkey's prisons concerning the COVID-19 outbreak.

Main Results:

• Prisoners face significant challenges in adhering to public health guidelines like social distancing.
• The elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions are disproportionately affected within prison populations.
• Existing prison conditions complicate the implementation of universal human rights regarding health and non-discrimination.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to public health principles and human rights is critically challenging in correctional facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The situation in Turkey's prisons highlights the urgent need for tailored strategies to protect incarcerated individuals.
• Effective management requires a comprehensive approach addressing both public health and human rights within prisons.