Organisation

Karen Lanci, born in Switzerland in 1968.
M.Ed, adult educator in the integration sector, prison teacher since 2015.
Field research on the topic of ‘Interplay between Albanian Crime Tourism & Socio-Economic Crisis’, including several months in Albania practicing at an industrial vocational school and at an UNDP project, networking with local experts and exchanging ideas with former prisoners.

“Teaching prisoners showed me that prison sentences are usually counterproductive and that almost everyone deserves a second chance. My visits to Albania's hotspots and the dialogue with former prisoners on site demonstrate that often-quoted sayings such as 'money doesn't make you happy' lose their validity in a country where poverty, corruption and a lack of prospects shape everyday life. Debt, unemployment, young people's willingness to take risks, lack of trust in the state, socio-medial brainwashing and aggressive advertising for careers in the drug business provide fertile ground for crime.
However, trivialisation and disinformation regarding penalties and consequences also contribute to the phenomenon of crime tourism. The latter, in particular, can be addressed in a cost-effective, easy and efficient manner, thereby contributing to the prevention of crime tourism.”

Brigitte Espelleta, born 1966 in Switzerland.
M.Ed., since 2013 prison teacher and head of education, sport and leisure in the correctional system.

“During my eleven years as a German teacher in prison, I have repeatedly learnt that it is a considerable challenge for ex-offenders to achieve sustainable reintegration into society after serving their sentence. Society, regardless of the country, presents challenges for ex-offenders, for example when looking for accommodation, finding work or building up a new circle of friends. I have often heard people say: ‘If I had known what the consequences of my offence would be, I would have thought twice.’ That's why it makes sense to support, inform and accompany ex-offenders through ‘like-minded people’ in order to reduce the risk of reoffending.”

Lisa Meyer, born 1970 in Switzerland.
Certified nurse HF,
CAS in basic forensic sciences, carer in the correctional and penal system since 2011.

“Crime refers to unlawful behaviour and the associated social consequences. Factors such as poverty, education and social inequality often play a role in the development of crime. Education is a key factor in reducing crime rates. Higher levels of education can help to raise the awareness of legal and social norms and improve the quality of life. I know this from many years of experience and I am in favour of the importance of preventive measures to avoid crime. This includes social integration programmes, education and the promotion of education as well as community projects that strengthen social cohesion.”

Ella Schweizer, born 1984 in Switzerland.
M.Sc. psychologist, psychotherapist (i.T.) in the penal and correctional system since 2019.

“I enjoy working as a forensic psychotherapist because I have the opportunity to help people who are often overlooked. I support people in difficult life situations and help them to understand and change their behaviour patterns. It is fulfilling to contribute to social rehabilitation and reduce the risk of further offences. The work is challenging and requires a deep understanding of the human psyche, different cultures and environmental factors, but that's what makes it so fascinating.”