The Observateur National des Lieux de Privation de Liberté (ONLPL) of Senegal released its fourth annual report on February 16, 2026, detailing its activities in 2025. The report covers monitoring, training, cooperation, and recommendations for improving conditions in places of detention. As an independent administrative authority, the ONLPL oversees detention facilities to ensure respect for fundamental rights. The report is available in PDF format, weighing 32.9 MB.
In 2025, the ONLPL visited 51 places of detention across Senegal, including police stations, gendarmerie brigades, closed centers for minors, psychiatric facilities, and prisons. These visits aimed to assess conditions and provide recommendations for improvement. The report includes an in-depth analysis of the disciplinary system in four pilot prisons in Dakar. This analysis helps identify areas for reform and enhancement of detention conditions.
One of the significant challenges highlighted in the report is the persistent overcrowding in prisons. The average occupancy rate in visited establishments was 233.5%, severely impacting detention conditions. Overcrowding strains resources and infrastructure, affecting the well-being of detainees. The ONLPL emphasizes the need for measures to address this issue and improve living conditions.
The report also points out infrastructural and material deficiencies in places of custody, particularly in cells used for police custody. Many cells do not meet the standard size of 12 square meters, raising concerns about detainees' rights and well-being. The ONLPL recommends improvements to ensure that detention facilities meet basic standards for human dignity.
The ONLPL has been working to enhance the capacities of defense and security forces regarding the rights of individuals in custody and the prevention of torture. Through training and collaboration, the observatory aims to promote a culture of respect for human rights within these forces. This effort is crucial for preventing abuses and ensuring that detainees are treated with dignity.
The ONLPL has strengthened its international collaboration with national preventive mechanisms (MNPs) in Africa and organizations such as the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT) and the World Organization Against Torture (OMCT). These partnerships facilitate the exchange of best practices and support in addressing common challenges in detention settings. This cooperation is vital for advancing the observatory's mission and improving detention conditions.
The ONLPL's 2025 annual report provides a comprehensive overview of its activities and the challenges faced in places of detention in Senegal. The report includes general and specific recommendations for improving detention conditions and respecting fundamental rights. By addressing these issues, the ONLPL aims to contribute to a more just and humane detention system in Senegal.
Key points
- 51 detention facilities were visited by the ONLPL in 2025.
- The average prison overcrowding rate was 233.5% in visited establishments.
- The ONLPL collaborated with international organizations to enhance detention conditions and prevent torture.
