Video calls through dedicated applications
In the UK, the prison system allows inmates to make video calls with their families through dedicated applications. Each call can last up to 60 minutes and up to 4 relatives are allowed to participate at the same time. Participants must be on the list approved by the prison and provide identification papers before the call is made.
According to regulations, each prisoner in the UK is usually allowed to make two 30-minute video calls or one 60-minute call per month, and the prison may allow additional calls if there are humanitarian reasons or for mental health reasons.
This system was widely deployed since the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly became an important tool to help maintain family relationships for inmates. According to the British Department of Justice, more than 9,000 video calls were made in the early days of deployment, helping many inmates to see their children or relatives even at great distances.
Contact via phone and digital devices
In addition to video calls, many countries also expanded the right to contact via telephone or digital devices in prisons.
In Illinois (USA), a pilot program allows each inmate to make about 775 minutes of free phone calls per month - equivalent to about 13 hours - to strengthen communication with family and support social reintegration after serving their prison term.
Some prison systems in the US and Europe also deploy internal tablet devices, allowing inmates to send messages, make calls or make video calls with relatives through a tightly controlled internal network. These devices do not allow free internet access but only operate within the prison's private communication system to ensure security.
Combine direct and online visits
In many countries such as Ireland or Australia, video calls are seen as an additional solution for direct visits. When relatives are far away or the prison restricts the number of visitors, the prison will arrange video call rooms so that inmates can talk to their families. These calls are often remotely monitored by prison officers to ensure compliance with regulations.
Research by the reform industry in Europe also shows that maintaining family contact helps improve the mental health of prisoners and reduce the risk of recidivism after release. In a survey in the UK, about 97% of prisoners said video calls had a positive impact on their spirits.
Humanistic trends in prison management
In general, many countries are gradually shifting from pure prison management models to reform and social reintegration models. In which, maintaining the connection between prisoners and their families is considered an important factor in helping to reduce psychological stress, limit violations of regulations and increase the ability to reintegrate into the community.
In that context, the proposal to allow prisoners in Vietnam to contact their families by video call is considered a step towards modern prison management trends in the world. If effectively implemented, this system will not only help prisoners maintain contact with their families but also contribute to supporting the process of reform and social reintegration after serving their sentences.
