The correctional centre in Dubrava is the biggest prison in Kosovo, with approximately 800 prisoners. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice, Prof. Dr. Hajredin Kuçi and Head of EULEX Justice Component, Silvio Bonfigli, visited the correctional centre on Tuesday, 1 November, to meet with the prison director and to inspect the work that is being done there.

EULEX has a team of specialists to monitor and assist the staff of the Dubrava correctional centre.

EULEX provides technical assistance and expertise to the Kosovo Correctional Service, they assist prison reforms, reintegration of minorities and inmates, transportation of prisoners and the security of correctional and detention centres.

The Correctional Centre in Dubrava has seen continuous investments for the refurbishment of existing facilities and also development of new capacities.
The Kosovo Government invests in this correctional centre, for example by installing new security cameras. Recently, the government also invested in the construction of a slaughterhouse and a cattle farm. This year the new facility for “sentenced cooperative witnesses” has been inaugurated.

The prison has four centres for professional training. There is a primary and secondary school. Also there is a hospital for the treatment of inmates.
The Ministry of Culture organises cultural activities and sports. There is a gym and a sports hall, outdoor football pitches and an auditorium for cultural events.

The Minister of Justice and EULEX Head of Justice expressed their satisfaction with the work being done:

Minister Hajredin Kuçi said:

“I had a visit together with the Head of EULEX Justice Component , as well as the managing staff of correctional service. I continue to cooperate closely with EULEX staff in building our capacities, increasing the transparency towards our citizens, and most importantly since my last visit, I believe that there are visible improvements.”

Silvio Bonfigli added:

“We still have many challenges ahead, however many things have been done. Things are moving forwards. From our side I want to reaffirm our commitment, our joint commitment with the Ministry of Justice. And I am sure that by working together on a daily basis things will improve further”

EULEX continues to work together with the Kosovo Correctional Service to bring this important rule of law institution in line with European standards.