PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling detailed a comprehensive vision for reforming the prison system, focusing on meaningful rehabilitation programs designed to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society. The Minister emphasized that the goal is to ensure individuals leave prison better than they entered, which ultimately benefits the entire community.
Current Programs and Future Enhancements
Currently, the prison offers a "prison education program," often referred to as a GED program. Minister Tackling clarified that this initiative is much broader than just exam preparation. Upon entry, inmates are assessed, and many are found to be at a pre-K or kindergarten level of literacy. The program then provides tailor-made education to bring them up to a higher standard.
Looking ahead, the ministry is actively working to rebuild and expand these programs. A four-year project managed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is central to this effort. The plan is to introduce a variety of vocational classes, such as woodworking and mechanics, as well as entrepreneurship courses. These programs aim to equip inmates with practical skills that can help them find employment or start their own businesses upon release.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Sustainable Systems
The Minister acknowledged past challenges, noting that programs like the woodworking class fell apart after Hurricane Irma destroyed the workshop and the instructor departed. To avoid future dependence on a single individual, the government is exploring sustainable models. One promising initiative involves a partnership with the European Solidarity Corps, which would bring volunteers from Europe to lead short-term projects such as jewelry-making or mural painting. This model, which has been successful in Aruba, provides stipends to both volunteers and participating inmates, creating a structured, rotating program system.
Another significant challenge is inmate participation. The Minister spoke about the "machismo" culture that can prevent inmates from admitting they need help or from wanting to be seen in a classroom. To counter this, the ministry is exploring incentive-based systems. One example mentioned is a program from Brazil where inmates earn time off their sentence for each book they read, making self-improvement more attractive.
A Holistic Approach to Reintegration
Minister Tackling stressed that successful reintegration requires a holistic approach that extends beyond the prison walls. The ministry is looking at long-term strategies to reduce the stigma faced by ex-inmates. This includes plans to incentivize businesses to hire former prisoners potentially.
The Minister's vision is clear: investing in prisoner rehabilitation is an investment in the community's future. By providing education, vocational skills, and a supportive framework for reintegration, the Ministry of Justice aims to break the cycle of recidivism and empower individuals to build productive lives after their release.
