The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of scientific approaches to security measures in Ukrainian penitentiary institutions during the period 2020–2025. It examines the transformation of academic discourse under the influence of penitentiary system reforms, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the full-scale military aggression against Ukraine, which have generated unprecedented risks and fundamentally altered the conditions of functioning of detention facilities. The study substantiates a gradual shift from predominantly regime- and custodial-oriented approaches toward an integrated security model that combines physical, dynamic, psychological, organizational, and legal components.

Special attention is paid to the development of the concept of dynamic security, the humanization of detention regimes, compliance with European standards for the treatment of persons deprived of liberty, and the management of psychological risks, which have significantly intensified in the context of hostilities, evacuation of prisoners and staff, destruction of penitentiary infrastructure, and resource constraints. The article analyzes the impact of the case law of the European Court of Human Rights and the recommendations of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture on shaping a contemporary doctrine of penitentiary security in Ukraine.

Despite notable progress, the study identifies a number of gaps in national research, including insufficient attention to cybersecurity threats, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles and counter-UAV measures, climate- and environment-related risks, gender-sensitive security issues, and post-traumatic stress management for both penitentiary staff and detainees. The necessity of revising engineering and technical standards for the protection of penitentiary facilities is substantiated, with emphasis on ensuring not only perimeter security but also reliable shelters against armed attacks.

The findings have practical significance for improving state policy in the execution of criminal penalties, implementing the Strategy for the Reform of the Penitentiary System for 2021-2026, and ensuring compliance with international human rights standards, while outlining priorities for further research in the field of penitentiary security.

Keywords: security in penitentiary institutions, dynamic security, penitentiary system, martial law, criminal-executive law.

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