The situation of people deprived of their liberty worldwide faces complex challenges that require urgent and committed attention from a human rights perspective. In many regions, detention centers operate far beyond their capacity, leading to severe overcrowding that directly affects the dignity and well-being of detainees. The lack of sufficient resources and adequate infrastructure limits access to health services, leaving many people in detention exposed to preventable diseases and untreated health conditions. This situation is exacerbated in countries with overburdened prison systems, where healthcare response and specialized medical staff are limited, creating a scenario of vulnerability and risk for the incarcerated population.
From a reintegration perspective, access to rehabilitation and psychosocial support programs is insufficient in most prison systems around the world, with few opportunities for education, job training, and psychological counseling that would facilitate effective social reintegration. Furthermore, in some contexts, inmates face dynamics of violence and internal control that further limit their safety and their ability to prepare for life outside prison. Given this context, it is essential to promote policies that recognize the rights of people in detention and guarantee dignified living conditions. For human rights organizations, this means moving toward structural reform that enables a comprehensive approach, based on respect for rights and rehabilitation, contributing to the reduction of recidivism and the strengthening of more inclusive and peaceful communities.
Once Trece committed to improving the health and well-being of incarcerated individuals in Venezuela, a population that lives in conditions of extreme vulnerability.
As an organization, we have had the opportunity to carry out interventions in pretrial detention centers in Venezuela, with the consent and support of government agencies. This support has provided a framework for cooperation that allows us to act with respect and effectiveness, facilitating access to these facilities and promoting improvements in the care provided to detainees. State collaboration has been essential to fulfilling our mission of defending dignity and human rights in these contexts, addressing both health needs and social reintegration initiatives that contribute to a more just and humane society.
Across the country, conditions in prisons reflect the challenges inherent in facilities with limited resources, where overcrowding and restricted access to basic services make it difficult to maintain standards of hygiene and sanitation. In this context, there is a high risk of the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) and other infections linked to suboptimal hygiene and medical care. Cells, originally designed for a specific number of people, often house a larger number, making it difficult to maintain minimum standards of health and privacy.
In light of this reality, Once Trece comprehensive medical care, health education, and prevention programs, focusing its efforts on the detection and treatment of TB and other infections. Through health outreach events, the distribution of medical and educational supplies, and preventive strategies, we work to ensure that people in detention have access to essential health resources, promoting a human rights-based approach that aims to improve living conditions within these facilities.
Many of the interventions were carried out in collaboration with the organization UVAL (A Window to Freedom), which facilitated the necessary connections to promote these activities. This partnership allowed us to coordinate efforts and expand the reach of our health outreach programs in correctional facilities. In several cases, state agencies themselves contacted Once Trece establish a partnership with their health staff, creating synergy in connecting incarcerated individuals who require special treatments to the public health system. This joint effort has been key to caring for, for example, those living with HIV, ensuring they can access the necessary treatments continuously and with dignity.
