The Failure of Prisoner Rights

Prisoner Rights: How the Failure to Enforce Rights Threatens to Undermine Social Justice

Millie Condron

In recent years, prisoner rights have been a major point of contention amongst both the state and the public. Prisoners are entitled to several rights during their detainment, yet there is growing evidence that suggests these rights are not respected in practice, which poses a significant threat to social justice. This paper examines the current hardships and setbacks ingrained in the prison system that are preventing prisoners from enjoying their rights to the fullest potential. I will explore how prisoner disenfranchisement, IPP sentences, remand and prison conditions all come together to threaten prisoners’ citizenship, equality of opportunity and their overall quality of life.

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