Inmates will wear electronic bracelets for outside work
Inmates will have increased opportunities for employment, both inside and outside of prisons. The time spent in paid work will now count towards their contribution period. This change follows Parliament's approval of a legislative initiative proposed by the Ministry of Justice during the first reading.
Secretary of State Eduard Serbenco announced during the April 30 meeting that a new initiative will provide inmates with increased employment opportunities outside prison, facilitated by electronic monitoring. Additionally, penitentiary institutions will implement dual education programs and create new job openings for convicts.
"We are creating opportunities for penitentiary institutions to develop production workshops, handicraft workshops, and other economic activities. They will also be able to enter into contracts with economic agents to involve inmates in specific economic activities outside of prison," stated the Secretary of State.
Inmates will receive a salary ranging from 20% to 50% of the country's minimum wage, depending on the complexity of the work performed. For direct contracts with public or private institutions, the compensation may exceed this limit.
Companies that hire convicted individuals will benefit from being designated as social entrepreneurs, along with the associated legal advantages. At the suggestion of deputies, Eduard Serbenco did not rule out the possibility of offering tax exemptions. He noted that if such amendments are proposed, they will be carefully reviewed to ensure they do not conflict with existing legislation.
The official emphasised that the reintegration of individuals serving prison sentences begins during their incarceration. Opportunities for work and the acquisition of new skills can significantly enhance the chances of their rehabilitation. The authorities aim to employ at least 25% of prisoners by the end of 2027, with the goal of raising that proportion to at least 40% by the end of 2030.
"The implementation of this project will likely lead to increased involvement of detained or imprisoned individuals in paid work, contribute to the development of their professional skills, facilitate their reintegration into society after serving their sentence, and enhance their employability upon release. Moreover, it will promote the growth of the penitentiary industry through the potential for economic activities within penitentiary institutions," the State Secretary of the Ministry of Justice stated.
According to data from the National Penitentiary Administration, approximately 1,200 out of over 6,600 detainees are currently working, with only 8% engaged in paid activities under contracts with public or private institutions.
