How Changes in Pilish Penal Law Affect the Social Reintegration of Prisoners

Monika Filipowska-Tuthill , Marta Stanisławska

Abstract

This paper examines the importance of social reintegration of prisoners in the context of polish penal law, and in particular issues related to the dangers of recidivism. The purpose of this article is to present significant changes and regulations related to the social reintegration of prisoners and their integration with the community as a legitimate citizens of it. Most prisoners believe that the legal system in Poland, including the post-penitentiary system, does not provide any possibility to return to life as a normal, functioning member of society. There is no assistance from the prison services in locating housing or occupation. As a result, former convicts return to prison most often after a conviction. While social workers try to complete their duties, they believe that until the prisoners do not feel the need to change, the penal institution is unable to help them. Returning to society after serving a prison sentence requires a complete lifestyle change. Overcrowding and few therapists and psychologists are not conducive to the process of social reintegration. Due to the legal nature of the protection of society, the freedom of individuals who committed criminal acts after their release, play a key role in preventing recidivism. Successful reintegration and comprehensive crime prevention programs determine the reentering of offenders into society after their imprisonment. In view of the significant changes in the legal regulations of the topic of social reintegration, an analysis of the rules concerning the significance of integration into society after imprisonment appears necessary.