Finland has introduced an innovative concept in its correctional system known as “smart prisons,” with the first facility established at Hämeenlinna Women’s Prison in 2021. The Smart Prison Project, which started in 2018, aims to utilize digital services to enhance the habilitation, education, and reintegration of incarcerated individuals.
The Hämeenlinna Women’s Prison integrates several digital technologies to support its incarcerated population. Each of the 100 single cells is equipped with a laptop featuring a smart system, allowing individuals to send messages, make requests, and conduct video calls with staff and family members. These devices provide access to selected internet sites for education and daily management, including Moodle for online courses, mental health programs, and self-help materials. Additionally, the system offers access to AI learning resources from the University of Helsinki’s Elements of AI platform.
The digital services also extend to VR pilot programs aimed at psychological support and rehabilitation, and the development of an offender management system using AI called RISE AI. This system aids in assessing offenders’ needs and planning services to reduce recidivism. The project has garnered international interest, and plans are underway to expand the smart prison model to other facilities in Finland, including Pyhäselkä and Kylmäkoski prisons.
The smart prison concept in Finland not only focuses on the welfare and rehabilitation of the incarcerated individuals but also involves extensive training for both staff and prisoners in ICT skills. This approach aims to maintain meaningful interactions and activities, ensuring that digitalization enhances rather than diminishes human contact and engagement within the prison environment.