Europe’s overcrowded prisons prompt controversial measures abroad

Europe’s prisons are reaching a critical tipping point. A recent Council of Europe report warns that one-third of prison systems are suffering from overcrowding, with the average inmate-to-capacity ratio rising from 93.5 to 94.9 in just one year.

Six countries—Slovenia, Cyprus, France, Italy, Romania, and Belgium—already have over 113 prisoners per 100 available places, Caliber.Az reports, citing Spanish media.

In response, some governments are looking abroad. Denmark has signed a €200 million deal to transfer 300 foreign inmates to Kosovo. Sweden, facing increased gang violence and rising convictions, plans to send up to 600 prisoners to Estonia for €30 million. The Netherlands and Finland are also exploring this option.

However, critics argue these moves merely export the problem. Previous attempts by Belgium and Norway to lease prisons abroad failed, with logistical challenges and reintegration efforts proving difficult. Hugh Chetwynd of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture called such solutions “negative experiences,” and warned of legal inconsistencies and human rights concerns.

Experts recommend alternatives: shorter sentences, early release, and community service. Italy is considering releasing up to 10,100 non-violent inmates with less than two years left to serve, while the UK has freed nearly 3,000 prisoners who completed 40% of their terms. Belgium, too, has passed emergency reforms prioritizing alternatives to incarceration for minor offenses.

Still, many governments avoid deep reform. As prison advocate Marion Guémas notes, “There’s always a prison open somewhere,” but real solutions require political courage and societal introspection.

By Vafa Guliyeva