Our Vision

Richtungswechsel (German for: “Change of Direction”) envisions a society where every incarcerated individual is given the support and opportunities needed for their successful social (re)integration. Through a focus on prison staff in combination with public engagement we want to create a culture of opportunities inside and outside of prisons –  enabling currently and formerly incarcerated individuals to lead responsible, crime-free lives.

Foto Person Justiz Unlocked Graduates program Prison reform education Leadership development for prison reform Graduates in criminal justice reform Rehabilitation-focused education program Career opportunities in prison reform Unlocking potential through education Innovative approaches to prison reform Professional development for reform advocates Transformative education for social change

Our Mission

Based on contemporary research and expert knowledge, prison systems require a holistic approach to the social (re)integration of currently and formerly incarcerated individuals, emphasising community integration and recognising that prisons do not operate in isolation. We believe that without public understanding, discourse, and support for incarcerated individuals and the reintegrative efforts of prisons and third-sector organisations, these efforts lack strategic direction, sustainability, and impact.

Richtungswechsel’s goal is, thus, to break the cycle of recidivism by fostering public discourse and holistic collaboration across the sector. As a non-profit organisation, we support European prison initiatives and focus our direct engagement with prison services on working with staff in prison settings.

Our mission is to elevate public awareness and participation in social (re)integration efforts, promote transformative mindset shift models within and beyond prison walls, and disrupt the cycle of recidivism. 

We are committed to this goal through the engagement of highly trained and dedicated prison staff and holistic collaboration across the criminal justice sector and beyond.