Introduction
Prisoner files: a tool for human rights
Prisoner files: a tool for effective prison management
Prisoner files: a tool for public confidence in the justice system
Purpose of the Handbook
Who this Handbook is aimed at
Terminology
1. Non-derogable rights of prisoners
Protection of the right to life
Prevention and protection against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
2. Rights of prisoners
Admission and registration
Access to justice
Classification and placement
Discipline
Rehabilitation
Employment
Health and well-being
Belongings and personal effects
External contact
Inspection, complaints and grievances
Transfer and release
Protection of children
Protection against discrimination
3. Prison file management in practice
Consequences for the prisoner
Consequences for the detaining authority
Consequences for the justice system
4. Requirements to comply with international law and standards
On initial detention
On admission to a correctional facility
Ongoing detention/imprisonment
On release
5. Checklists for prisoner files
Identity information
Detention information
Judicial information
Arrest/investigation information
6. Setting up a prisoner file management system
Creating a general prisoner file
Medical files
File register
Prison registry
Access to files and information sharing
Transferring files
Archiving and storage.