Correctional Reform Law Approved in Sharjah

A draft law regulating correctional institutions in Sharjah has been approved by the Sharjah Consultative Council as part of wider efforts to modernise the emirate’s correctional system and strengthen rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
The legislation outlines the structure, responsibilities and operational framework of correctional institutions while establishing policies focused on security, reform, rehabilitation and the protection of inmates’ dignity and human rights.
The draft law also includes provisions covering behavioural and social reform programmes, vocational and psychological rehabilitation initiatives, healthcare services, social empowerment programmes, and post-release reintegration support. Particular emphasis was placed on rehabilitation following release, with discussions highlighting the importance of maintaining environments that support inmates’ psychological and social stability after completing their sentences.
The law additionally sets out regulations governing management structures, institutional powers, inmates’ rights and obligations, and operational mechanisms intended to integrate security, humanitarian and social responsibilities within correctional work.
The legislation was approved during the council’s 17th session of the third ordinary term of the 11th legislative chapter at the council headquarters in Sharjah.