The goals of the Prison Service and Probation Service are to:

• contribute to the security in society by maintaining a lawful and safe system of enforcement of sanctions;
• reduce recidivism and endeavour to break social exclusion that also reproduces crime

The sentences shall be enforced so that:

• the enforcement is safe to society, the convict and prison personnel;
• the convict’s potential to cope in society and his well-being by honest means are enhanced
• the convict’s resources to adopt a life without crime will improve.

The central value of the Criminal Sanctions Agency is the respect for human dignity and justness. We believe in the potential for individual change and growth. Also the following principles are adhered to in our work:

• Effectiveness: we are accountable to society in reaching the targets set to us.
• Individuality and responsibility of an individual: we take into account a convict’s situation and personal needs.
• Professionalism: prison service is demanding work that requires a professional approach. Work is being evaluated and developed continuously.
• Co-operation: we are working in good co-operation with each other, with other authorities, convicts, their relatives and other close interest groups.
• Good administration: functions are legal, open, predictable and the decision-making is as fast as possible.