The State Center for Prevention and Social Reinsertion of Guanajuato, in Mexico, received accreditation from the American Correctional Association (ACA) after an audit demonstrated compliance with 137 international standards. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as the prison achieved 100% compliance in mandatory standards and 98% in non-mandatory standards.
"Standards are increasingly higher, but so is our commitment to maintain control and ensure the dignity of those in incarceration," expressed Julio César Pérez Ramírez, director of the state penitentiary system. Despite persistent reports of overcrowding, self-governance, and a lack of effective reintegration programs in Mexico, the Guanajuato prison has stood out by reaching this level of validation.
The accreditation not only signifies international support for the prison, but also enables the conduct of more audits, access to best practices globally, and greater transparency regarding the management of the institution. With more than 600 incarcerated individuals, the center has implemented schemes to strengthen internal governance without neglecting the focus on human rights. The official delivery of the recognition will take place during the upcoming international ACA conference.
This certification, which is renewed every three years, evaluates a range of aspects such as living conditions, reintegration processes, security protocols, treatment of incarcerated individuals, and administrative practices. The evaluation was carried out by representatives of the ACA, who reviewed files, interviewed inmates and staff, and verified the physical conditions of the prison.
