Improving the living conditions of prisoners was the main topic of discussion at a working session held between the Deputy Special Representative in charge of Rule of Law, Arnauld Akodjénou and the Director of Prison Administration, Babacar Ouata, on Wednesday, 11 December 2013, at the headquarters of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI).



Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Ouata said: "{We discussed what the priorities are and what could be done to improve the living conditions of prisoners". }He said that issues regarding "regulations and their implementation" in accordance with international standards, "strengthening the capacity of prison guards", as well as "improving prison infrastructure" were also discussed.



The working session came two weeks after a visit made by the Deputy Special Representative to the main civilian prison in Abidjan, known as the Maison d'arrêt et de correction d'Abidjan (MACA), on 27 November 2013.



"{The Deputy Special Representative's visit to the MACA provided us with invaluable support because it led prison workers to regain confidence in improving their work and in carrying out their daily duties}," said the Director of Prison Administration.



As part of its mandate, UNOCI assists the Ivorian Prison Administration in its concept and management of prisons in accordance with security norms and human rights protection standards and in the acquisition and use of technical equipment for the smooth functioning of prisons. The UN Mission, in collaboration with different partners, also contributes through specific projects to providing food for prisoners and creating income-generating activities in prisons in Côte d'Ivoire



The Directorate of Prison Administration in Côte d'Ivoire is in charge of the management and control of prisons, control and surveillance in these establishments, taking decisions on detaining a person, the organisation of social services and work in prisons, the implementation of a progressive system and procedures for the conditional release of prisoners, proposals for prison reforms and the training and social reintegration of prisoners.