Ukraine’s current legal framework does not include a nationwide strategy for relocating penitentiary facilities during martial law, raising concerns among legal professionals and human rights advocates. Lawyer Oleksandr Zaitsev of Grain Law Firm has pointed out that this lack of preparedness could lead to critical vulnerabilities in the nation’s correctional system during periods of heightened military activity.
The absence of a relocation plan means that penitentiary facilities may not have the necessary procedures in place to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff during emergencies. Zaitsev emphasized that without clear protocols, the risk of losing control over these facilities increases significantly, potentially leading to humanitarian crises and security breaches.
This issue has sparked discussions within legal circles about the need for legislative reforms to address the gap in Ukraine’s emergency preparedness for its correctional institutions. The lawyer’s comments underscore the importance of having contingency plans that align with the country’s broader security and public safety strategies.