Country

France

Detention issue

Solitary confinement

FRA research findings

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Legal instruments & key provisions

Legal instrument Key provision
Code of criminal procedure (Code de procédure pénale)There are two types of solitary confinement. Solitary confinement on a preventive basis, known as isolation, for reasons related to the safety or the protection of the detainee. Solitary confinement as a sanction. Confinement consists of placing the detainee in their cell on their own. The duration of confinement varies depending on the seriousness of the behaviour. It cannot exceed 30 days.

NATIONAL PREVENTIVE MECHANISM RECOMMENDATIONS

Year Recommendation Report
2016The NPM recommended to improve the conditions for contact with the family or friends of people placed in solitary or disciplinary confinement, to guarantee confidentiality of care in detention establishments, in particular by installing protected consultation places, including in areas of solitary or disciplinary confinement and to ensure the dignity of the accommodation conditions in disciplinary areas by respecting the minimum of 6 m2 per cell, guaranteeing proper access to natural light, a fire protection system, means of communication with the staff, proper hygiene, adapted walks, possibly with several people, the possibility of taking a daily shower and access to various reading material. Report details
2017The NPM recommended to ensure better access to libraries for people in solitary or disciplinary confinement. Report details
2020The NPM states that solitary confinement measures should never prevent the prisoner from having contact with his or her relatives. The seclusion measure must allow meetings with other persons deprived of their liberty, their carers or third parties as often as possible. Report details