The rate of incarceration of women is increasing worldwide, while the special needs of women prisoners have received scant attention. Panelists participating in this discussion reflect on the early findings of an important study of the causes and consequences of women’s imprisonment in Jamaica, drawing parallels with the experiences of incarcerated women worldwide. The results and recommendations of the study will guide government officials and international organizations in devising policies to better address the needs of incarcerated women and women implicated in the drug trade.

The panel features Elizabeth Brundige, Assistant Clinical Professor of Law, Assistant Dean for International Programs, and Executive Director, Avon Global Center for Women & Justice at the Cornell Law School; Dr. Aldrie Henry-Lee, Senior Research Fellow at the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica; Donna Hylton, Community Health Advocate at St. Luke’s–Roosevelt Hospital; and Marie-Claude Jean-Baptiste, Programs Director, Cyrus R. Vance Center for International Justice, moderating the conversation. Introduction by Adele Bernhard, Brooklyn Museum Trustee. Video courtesy of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Foundation.

Part of the series "States of Denial: The Illegal Incarceration of Women, Children, and People of Color."