On 28 and 29 April 2026, Ivan Šelih, Deputy Human Rights Ombudsman and Head of the National Preventive Mechanism, and Ana Polutnik, member of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), attended a conference entitled Mental Health in Detention in Strasbourg. The conference focused on addressing mental health challenges in places of deprivation of liberty across Europe, with particular emphasis on the role of NPMs and Council of Europe standards.

Organised by the Council of Europe as part of the European NPM Forum, the conference highlighted the high prevalence of mental health disorders among detained persons, particularly depression, anxiety and self-harming behaviour. Special attention was given to vulnerable groups, including children and adolescents, women, persons dependent on illicit substances, foreign nationals and persons with psychosocial or intellectual disabilities, who are at greater risk of receiving inadequate treatment.

Discussions highlighted key systemic shortcomings, including a shortage of qualified staff, inadequate mental health assessments, limited continuity of care and the excessive use of isolation and coercive measures. It was also noted that inadequate healthcare may constitute a violation of human rights.

Current Council of Europe recommendations were presented, including those of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT), which emphasise the importance of a comprehensive and dignified approach to mental healthcare, as well as the need for additional staff training. The importance of integrated approaches was also highlighted, including effective monitoring, inter-institutional cooperation and the exchange of good practices.

The conference was held in an interactive format, enabling participants to exchange experiences and discuss practical challenges and possible solutions. Particular attention was devoted to the protection of children in detention, including ensuring appropriate conditions, informed consent, contact with family members and the prevention of harm.

Participation in the conference contributed to a better understanding of current challenges and strengthened awareness of the importance of systematic monitoring and continuous improvement of practices in the field of mental health protection in detention settings. This is an area to which the National Preventive Mechanism in Slovenia, operating within the framework of the Human Rights Ombudsman, pays particular attention.