This study presents the results of a survey of 31 women who have experience of detention in Belarusian penal institutions. The main findings of the study indicate serious problems with ensuring adequate medical care, psychological support, and the protection of the confidentiality of medical information.
General Health Status and Medical Care
Self-assessments of health status among respondents indicate an overall unsatisfactory level. The majority (45.2%) rated their health as “satisfactory,” while 22.6% considered it “poor” or “very poor.” Only 19.4% of women assessed their health as “good.” Many respondents reported difficulties in obtaining timely and adequate medical care, especially specialized services. In addition, problems with the regular provision of necessary medications were noted.
Mental Health and Confidentiality
Only 3.2% of respondents reported consultations with a psychiatrist during their imprisonment, indicating a critical lack of psychiatric care. Access to psychotherapy was assessed as very low, and a significant proportion of surveyed women reported a deterioration in their mental health.
One of the most alarming findings of the study concerns breaches of confidentiality. 77.4% of respondents expressed confidence that information about their psychological condition was shared among other staff members and/or prisoners. 45.2% of women reported being forced to disclose medical information to other inmates or staff. At the same time, only 16.1% of respondents confirmed that confidentiality was maintained during gynecological examinations.
Recommendations
Based on the results of the study, the following recommendations are proposed to improve the situation:
- Systemic reforms: adoption of legislation on the healthcare of imprisoned women, implementation of international standards, establishment of independent monitoring mechanisms, and staff training.
- The study concludes that without serious reforms, the healthcare system in Belarusian prisons will continue to violate fundamental human rights and international standards.
The full report can be read and downloaded here (Belarusian language only): https://doctorsby.com/2025/08/30/13804/
Machine translation from Belarusian.