China to enhance jail rehabilitation, education in draft law revisions

Prisons are required to strengthen their connections and cooperation with social institutions and practices to better assist in the education and rehabilitation of inmates, an official from China's top legislature said.

Huang Haihua, a spokesman for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, clarified the requirement on Friday while introducing a draft amendment to the Prison Law, which is scheduled to be reviewed by Chinese lawmakers next week.

Citing the draft amendment, Huang said that with the approval of prison wardens, inmates will be allowed to have phone calls and meetings with individuals who can aid in their rehabilitation.

Prisons should also develop targeted rehab plans based on the specific circumstances of each inmate, and make dynamic adjustments as needed, he said, adding: "The draft amendment is expected to improve the principles of prison management by adding some provisions that further respect and protect human rights. Content involving pre-release education for offenders is also to be added, in an effort to enhance their ability to adapt to social life after completing their sentences."

In addition, the draft amendment aims to strengthen the supervision of law enforcement in prisons and by police officers, and improve the mechanisms for accountability. It will also include some provisions related to managing the incarceration of foreign nationals, he added.

Huang emphasized the importance of revising the law, adding that standardizing prison management will help the country promote the institution based on safety and rule of law.

Besides the draft amendment, the NPC Standing Committee will also review several other draft laws during a session scheduled to be held in Beijing from Monday to Friday.

These legislative items include a draft atomic energy law, and draft laws on public health emergency response, national parks, safety management of hazardous chemicals, and enhancing legal education.

Huang highlighted the significance of legal education, saying that "such education must start from a young age". He revealed that the relevant draft law is to formulate a specialized chapter for youth, with specific requirements for governments, families and schools.

Under the draft law, judicial bodies, public security authorities and social organizations are also ordered to provide their legal resources to support schools in conducting legal education.

During the upcoming session, Chinese lawmakers will also review reports on economic and social development by the State Council, China's Cabinet.

caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn