The National Human Rights Commission Highlights the Transformative Power of Art in Prisons

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) inaugurated an art exhibition themed "Give Us a Second Chance" on November 6, 2025, at the Hennessy Park Hotel, in collaboration with Sofap, Gallery Imaaya, and Kinouété.

The exhibition aimed to raise public awareness about rehabilitation, social reintegration, and the importance of offering a second chance to inmates through artistic expression. It also served as a platform to showcase works created by inmates from Melrose and Beau-Bassin prisons, highlighting the transformative power of art in promoting dignity, personal reflection, and inclusion.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Ms. Véronique Leu Govind, Minister Delegate for Arts and Culture, Rajen Narsinghen, Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, and Kugan Parapen, Minister Delegate for Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity.

NHRC President Satyajit Boolell, along with Vice Presidents and Commission members, was present alongside various stakeholders. Family members of inmates and representatives from partner organizations participated in this significant event, demonstrating their ongoing support for rehabilitation initiatives. Approximately forty paintings and sculptures exploring themes of hope, resilience, independence, identity, and personal growth were exhibited.

In his speech, Satyajit Boolell reaffirmed the Commission's continual commitment to promoting human dignity and the right to rehabilitation, in line with the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He pointed out that the requirement for a character certificate often poses a barrier to the reintegration of former inmates, urging a reconsideration or removal of these administrative hurdles to provide them with a true second chance. The NHRC also expressed gratitude to all partners for their valuable collaboration and reaffirmed its dedication to initiatives based on compassion, respect, and human rights.

In her remarks, Ms. Pauline Bonieux praised this initiative, emphasizing that "each piece of art is a window into the soul of its creator as they navigate the complexities of their prison experience."

In her inaugural address, Ms. Véronique Leu Govind stated that it is time for society and the judicial system to reassess the issue of the character certificate, which hinders the rehabilitation process of former inmates. She called on businesses to offer a second chance to these individuals by enabling their access to employment, a crucial condition for their social reintegration. Finally, she encouraged former inmates to develop entrepreneurial skills to achieve professional autonomy.

Ms. Melany Nagen remarked: "The exhibition on November 6, 'Give Us a Second Chance,' is much more than an artistic showcase — it is a testament to the human capacity to change, regain dignity, and hope. Through art, the walls of detention give way to bridges of understanding. At the National Human Rights Commission, we firmly believe that every individual, regardless of their past, deserves the chance to rebuild, heal, and contribute meaningfully to society. Rehabilitation is not just a legal goal; it is a fundamental human right."

Michel Vieillesse, a member of the NHRC's National Prevention Mechanism Division (NPMD), shared the poignant testimony of a mother of an inmate present at the event. She expressed how the Commission's support brings her comfort and hope, empowering her to continue supporting her son in his rehabilitation journey. She also stressed the importance of society recognizing the efforts of inmates toward change, which is essential for their reintegration. Michel Vieillesse played a key role in coordinating with the families of inmates and facilitating their participation in the exhibition.

Other speakers included Ms. Pauline Bonieux, President of the Kinouété Association, who commended the NHRC for organizing this exhibition and highlighted the deep humanity that pervades each piece of art. She noted that these creations reflect the empathy, resilience, and indomitable human spirit of their creators. She emphasized the importance of maintaining such artistic expression platforms that promote rehabilitation and social reintegration, calling for the continuation and expansion of these transformative programs.

Rajen Narsinghen, Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, and Jean François Richard, General Director of Hennessy Park Hotel, also spoke, sharing a poignant message from an inmate who participated in the exhibition.

The exhibition is open to the public until December 6, 2025, and the works are also for sale.