Juridical Analysis of Prisoners’ Right to Work Safety and Wages in the Correctional Law

Abstract

The right to work safety, wages, or work premiums for prisoners is a fundamental entitlement regulated under Article 9J of Law Number 22 of 2022 on Corrections. This paper analyzes the juridical implementation of Article 9J at the Class IIA Women’s Correctional Facility in Bandar Lampung, focusing on the fulfillment of prisoners’ rights and the obstacles faced in practice. The research employs a normative and empirical juridical method, using primary data obtained from field studies and secondary data from literature reviews. The data were examined through a qualitative juridical approach. The findings show that prisoners’ wages are determined based on income generated from the sale of inmate-produced goods and services, after deducting production costs. The implementation of wages is guided by principles of humanity and justice, while the amount of wages or premiums is outlined in cooperation agreements with third parties. Nonetheless, several challenges remain, including the absence of detailed regulations on wage standards, limited competitiveness of inmate products, insufficient infrastructure and budget for self-reliance programs, and a lack of societal recognition of prisoners’ potential. This study suggests that the government should issue updated regulations regarding minimum wages and premiums for inmate workers, accompanied by sufficient budgetary support for self-reliance programs. In addition, the Class IIA Women’s Correctional Facility in Bandar Lampung is encouraged to maximize available resources, promote inmate products through various platforms, and enhance cooperation with external partners