In an effort to highlight the vulnerabilities of certain prisoners, UNMIS Rule of Law section held a special workshop on their treatment from 24 to 25 February in El Obeid, Northern Kordofan State.

In an effort to highlight the vulnerabilities of certain prisoners, UNMIS Rule of Law section held a special workshop on their treatment from 24 to 25 February in El Obeid, Northern Kordofan State.

The workshop aimed to show prisoner vulnerabilities due to age, sex, physical or mental conditions, religion, culture and legal or political status. Trainers noted that vulnerable prisoners could easily be harmed and their rights violated, emphasizing that they were entitled to additional services and protection.

Prison staff was introduced to principles and protective measures essential in preventing discrimination as well as the need to focus on non-custodial sanctions for vulnerable prisoners whenever possible. They also learned about international standards, norms and customs as well as Sudanese laws and regulations protecting them.

The training was attended by 30 prison officers and social workers from Northern Kordofan State. Participants evaluated the workshop positively, recommending a continuation of specialized on-the-job training for all prison officers in the state.

UNMIS Rule of Law, which has conducted three training sessions in the past three months, is now planning to focus on "training of trainers" programmes.