The Romanian prison system, which is theoretically mandated to be self-supporting, consists of 31 prisons, one hospital, and two reeducation centers for juvenile offenders. There is also one women's prison. The physical environment of these facilities is marked by poor cell conditions, overcrowding, poor hygiene and sanitation, and inadequate food and health care. The report documents typical treatment of special categories of prisoners including women, detainees, juveniles, and ethnic minorities. The continuing use of restraints such as handcuffs and leg irons for very long periods of time as a form of punishment is a violation of international standards for the treatment of prisoners. The report describes abuse by guards and corruption rife in Romanian prisons. Prison activities include some form of work programs, educational programs, entertainment, exercise, religious activities, and postrelease programs. During interviews, prison directors admitted problems with inmate safety and the high incidence of self-mutilation among prisoners. Most Romanian prisons instituted a "cell boss" system whereby one inmate was rewarded with higher status and material goods to spy and inform on other inmates. This report also discusses inmate remedies, the Draft Prison Code, and police lock-ups. 6 appendixes