The Price of a Cell: Daily Rates and Top Costs in Ukrainian Pre-Trial Detention Centers

What It Costs to Pay for a Cell in Ukrainian Detention

According to Главком: The Ukrainian publication 'Glavcom' has released data, obtained from the State Criminal Executive Service, detailing the fees charged for upgraded cells in the country's pre-trial detention centers (SIZOs). The figures show daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Over a six-year period, 15 such facilities generated 52 million hryvnias from this service alone. This system, akin to 'pay-to-stay' programs in other countries, allows detainees to pay for improved conditions.

Price Variations Across Different Facilities

The Kyiv SIZO commands the highest prices, with a daily rate of 2,970 UAH, a weekly rate of 10,396 UAH, and a monthly rate of 15,540 UAH. The Kharkiv SIZO offers four paid cells for 12 people, charging 1,465 UAH per day, 5,125 UAH per week, and 6,000 UAH per month. The Izmail SIZO has one paid cell for two people, priced at 1,320 UAH per day, 4,620 UAH per week, and 6,000 UAH per month. The Khmelnytskyi SIZO maintains two cells for four people, costing 1,154 UAH per day, 4,000 UAH per week, and 7,290 UAH per month.

In contrast, the most affordable rates are found at:

• Kropyvnytskyi SIZO - 450 UAH per day for two-person and four-person cells.
• Lutsk SIZO - 500 UAH per day, with three cells for six people.
• Chernihiv SIZO - 517 UAH per day for one cell accommodating two people.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Justice launched this initiative for cells with improved conditions in May 2020. Former Deputy Justice Minister Malyuska noted it is one of the most successful projects in the penitentiary system, indicating significant public interest in the paid cells.

Overall, paid cells in pre-trial detention centers remain popular, as their use provides substantial revenue for the institutions. The wide range of pricing across different facilities highlights disparities in accessibility for various segments of the population. This sustained interest is seen as reflecting broader trends toward improving detention conditions, an important aspect of human rights that could drive further reforms within Ukraine's criminal justice system.