For a woman behind bars, her family and children represent the most precious, yet also the most vulnerable, part of her life. That is precisely why the prison system cynically uses motherhood as a tool for psychological blackmail and coercion. Instead of supporting and strengthening family ties—which are a key element of genuine resocialization—the system offers to “take care of the children” in exchange for hypocrisy and cooperation.
Former political prisoner Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk and expert Vasil Zavadski speak candidly about the tactics used by colony administrations and the reality a mother faces upon returning home to her family.
Scriptwriter, Camera Operator, Editor: Max Morrisson
Interviewer of Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk: Volha Vialichka