Computers in Cells with Safe Internet Access

The Issue: 

The digital age has bypassed prisoners leaving them even more disadvantaged. Printed correspondence, courses, and letters have been replaced by websites and emails for the general population. This change has ended prisoners’ access to distance education. Prison administrators have not responded as they are primarily security conscious and suspicious of new technology. Additionally, governments do not want to appear soft on prisoners. This has caused a deep digital divide, despite the obvious new opportunity for the delivery of services. 

Why it needs to be addressed:

Computers in cells provide prisoners with access to education, counselling, and legal services. Access to education is a basic human right that is increasingly becoming compromised in prisons. It has been recognised that education in prisons boosts motivation and rehabilitation of prisoners and is vital in reducing recidivism rates. 

Access to computers in cells additionally provides prisoners with counsellors through external providers which is necessary for the rehabilitation of detainees. Access to legal information and services can also be provided through computers in cells, allowing prisoners access to a fair trial.