Laws and principles of sentencing
The legal system and the procedure for the execution of sentences play a fundamental role not only in ensuring justice, but also in creating conditions for a person's change and return to society. Modern European states are increasingly relying on humane, socially responsible principles that encourage not to punish, but to help change. On this page we present the main principles that guide modern sentencing practice - from normalization to the development of responsibility
Principles of Sentencing in Europe: Towards Dignity, Humanity and Change
The modern European penal system is increasingly based on human dignity, responsibility and integration into society, rather than punishment alone. The experience of Western European countries shows that prison should be a measure of last resort, with much emphasis on alternative punishments and resocialization.
Normalization
Prison conditions should differ as little as possible from life in freedom. Convicts retain their civil rights, have the opportunity to study, work and communicate with their families.
Openness
Prison is not a closed world. Contacts with the outside world, visits, correspondence, and temporary release for work, family, or studies are encouraged.
Responsibility
Convicts are taught to take care of their own daily lives: preparing meals, cleaning themselves, planning for the future. This develops independence and reduces dependence on the system.
Why does this work?
Research shows that such principles reduce recidivism, improve the psychological state of convicts, and facilitate integration upon return to society. Prison is no longer just a place of punishment – it is the beginning of change.
Read:
The new resocialization system in Lithuania: motivation instead of punishment
Minister of Justice Elvinas Jankevičius presented a new model of resocialization of convicts, based on advanced foreign practices. The goal of this reform is not only to ensure justice, but also to create real conditions for people to change.
Work for benefits
Convicts who refuse to work will no longer receive certain benefits, such as more frequent visits, outings to the city, or the opportunity to shop at the prison store.
Motivated convicts
Those who behave well will have the opportunity to work outside the prison, will be insured, and will be able to start saving for life after release.
Dual mode system
Two groups are created - light and strict regime, where rights and privileges depend on behavior and effort.
The goal is less relapse.
The system is designed to help reduce recidivism. Currently, 62% of released convicts in Lithuania return to prison, one of the highest rates in the EU.
Read:
How to apply to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)?
If you believe that your rights have been violated and you have not been able to obtain justice in your country, you can apply to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. This is an independent institution that examines human rights violations under the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
When can I apply?
If all domestic legal remedies have already been exhausted (e.g. neither the court of first instance nor the court of appeal has helped).
The appeal must be filed within 6 months of the final decision in the state.
The court only accepts serious, legally valid complaints - not anonymous ones or those that abuse the system.
What do I need to submit?
A completed ECHR application form (available on their website or from us)
Attachments: all decisions related to the case
Explanations of which human rights provisions were violated
This is a formal legal document - it must be completed accurately, clearly and according to the established rules. We recommend that you read the memo before completing it.
Where to send?
The completed document is sent by regular mail to:
European Court of Human Rights
Council of Europe
F-67075 Strasbourg Cedex
France
The goal is less relapse.
The system is designed to help reduce recidivism. Currently, 62% of released prisoners in Lithuania return to prison, one of the highest rates in the EU.