The role of technology – and virtual reality in particular – in preventing and addressing violence in correctional facilities was the focus of an online event organised by KMOP – Social Action and Innovation Centre, on Tuesday, 22 July 2025.
The discussion featured professionals in the fields of mental health, correctional education and technology, who explored the potential of virtual reality to enhance empathy and reduce aggressive behaviour in restrictive environments such as prisons.
Irianna Dragona, EU Programmes Manager at KMOP moderated the event, while Dimitra Drakaki, Director of the Agricultural Prison of Agia, Chania, presented the situation in Greek correctional facilities and the challenges related to inmates’ aggression. Special emphasis was placed on the importance of psychoeducation and strengthening psychological resilience, both for inmates and correctional staff.
KMOP researcher Markos Sangogian and EU Programmes Manager Evelina Emvaloti showcased good practices and digital tools developed and applied within the VR4REACT project, focusing on enhancing the skills of professionals working in the field.
The event concluded with testimonies and real-life experiences from the implementation of virtual reality in correctional settings, with Dimitra Drakaki sharing initial positive results in inmates’ behaviour and attitude change.
The audience engaged actively in the final discussion, demonstrating growing interest in the intersection between technology, mental health and social reintegration.
The event took place in the context of the European project VR4REACT – Reducing Reactive Aggression through Virtual Reality, which is funded by the European Union and aims to reduce reactive aggression among inmates with a history of such behaviour through innovative psychoeducational interventions using virtual reality.
For more information about the project and upcoming actions, please visit KMOP’s website or contact [email protected]