The article describes the state of affairs regarding the prevention of torture in the Ukrainian penitentiary system. The Ukrainian prison system continues to transform from a Soviet to a European model. Despite thirty years of operation in an independent state, numerous normatively declared reforms, updates to operational approaches in the implementation of punishments, and various projects with comprehensive expert support from international organizations, unacceptable practices of violating prisoners’ rights, degrading human dignity, and unjustified or excessive violence against detainees still persist.

The article separately examines, from the perspective of practical managerial experience, the main cases of unjustified and excessive use of force against prisoners. It also investigates public reports and internal investigations into the most high-profile incidents regarding prisoners’ rights in recent years. One of the projects aimed at eradicating unacceptable treatment of prisoners, such as cruelty, degrading dignity, and actions indicating torture, is the introduction of officials titled “inspectors for prisoners’ rights and prevention of torture” in Ukraine’s correctional colonies. The need for establishing such a position, responsible for implementing measures to ensure prisoners’ rights and prevent torture in correctional colonies, is substantiated. The article also outlines the basic principles that should be considered when designing this national project of the State Criminal-Executive Service of Ukraine.

Key words: torture, human rights, prison, prisoners, prisoners’ rights, rights of convicts, protection of rights, prevention of torture, treatment of prisoners, European Court of Human Rights, international standards, human rights mechanisms, law enforcement agencies, prison management, penitentiary reform.

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