Georgia’s Inmates May See Sentences Reduced in Exchange for Work

(KUTAISI, Georgia) -- Georgia’s Corrections Minister Kakha Kakhishvili announced a major prison reform program from early next year that will allow prisoners to decrease their sentences if they agree to take part in a correctional facility’s employment program.

According to Kakhishvili, one day of work will be equal to one day deducted from their sentence.

“This will be a stimulus for inmates to think about employment and a better life when they leave the penitentiary,” Kakhishvili said.

The minister also announced plans for the creation of new working facilities and enterprises in prisons that will help to employ more prisoners.

Bakeries, sewing and wood workshops currently operate in prisons. Inmates receive salaries from agricultural activities and through the sale of handmade items through the correction ministry’s official webpage.