Gender and SSR Toolkit: Penal Reform and Gender: Tool 5

The penal system is a vital part of the security sector. Any state run according to the rule of law must have a justice system that is able to impose sanctions, where appropriate, on those convicted. Most countries have an array of sanctions, ranging from warnings and community service to imprisonment. The penal system ensures that the law is enforced and respected. It also protects society by removing from circulation those who pose a serious threat of harm to others, deterring would-be offenders, rehabilitating offenders and showing society's disapproval of their acts. However, the discrimination that pervades justice systems in general is also found in many penal systems, as can be observed in their sentencing procedures and the way penalties are administered. Integrating gender issues – the different needs, rights and abilities of women, men, boys and girls – into penal reform processes will help build an effective penal system that is non-discriminatory, meets human rights standards, and promotes prisoners' rehabilitation.

This tool on penal reform and gender provides guidance on responding to gender issues within penal systems. It aims to assist those responsible for management, policy making or reform of prisons within their own countries; international and regional actors supporting prison reform; as well as parliamentarians, civil society organisations and others that play a role in overseeing and monitoring prisons.