Opened the doors of Lithuanian prisons: castes, drugs, brutality, and help that is almost impossible to obtain
A report highlights the critical issues within Lithuanian prisons, including caste systems, drug use, and a lack of protective measures for vulnerable inmates.
The recent report by Seimo kontrolierė Dr. Erika Leonaitė sheds light on the dire conditions within Lithuanian prisons, marking a significant interrelation between outdated infrastructure and systemic issues such as caste systems, drug use, and limited employment opportunities for inmates. The pervasive culture of violence in prisons particularly impacts the so-called ‘wronged’ caste of inmates, raising concerns about the state's responsibility for inhumane treatment, especially in an environment where their safety is not ensured.
The report details the infrastructure as a primary factor enabling violence among inmates, as the majority are housed in dormitory-style accommodations accommodating up to 24 individuals per room. This overcrowding severely compromises personal privacy and safety, with inmates often seeking ways to establish their own space amidst chaotic living conditions. Inspectors have noted that inmates struggle to segregate themselves from potential aggressors, leading to a constant threat of violence.
Furthermore, the report stresses the inadequacy of existing support systems for inmates seeking help, particularly those facing violence. With a scarcity of resources and personnel, both the psychological and physical needs of inmates often go unaddressed. The pronounced drug use and lack of rehabilitation services exacerbate these challenges, which are compounded by the caste system that further marginalizes certain groups within the prison hierarchy, leaving vulnerable individuals at even greater risk of abuse and neglect.