From Poland to Spain: EU prisons grapple with overcrowding epidemic

Overcrowding is a serious issue for prisons in EU countries. According to Eurostat, the prison population in these countries reached approximately 499,000 in 2023. This figure reflects a 3.2% increase in the prison population compared to the previous year.

Euronews reports that 13 EU member states have reported overcrowding in prison cells. Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic have the highest incarceration rates in the EU.

EU authorities predict that, due to political changes, the number of prisoners could increase by up to 200% between 2023 and 2027.

The regional program director at Penal Reform International stated that the prison population in Europe, particularly after the cessation of COVID-19 prevention measures, has been rising.

He noted that multiple factors, traceable to inadequate or inconsistent legal policies or practices, contribute to the growing number of individuals in prisons.

The rising prison population in EU member states exacerbates security concerns due to overcrowded cells.

Overcrowding affects both inmates and prison staff, leading to increased violence, burnout, and reduced control within prisons.

For instance, reports indicate that in Spain, overcrowding has allowed criminal gangs to operate more freely within prisons, while in Slovenia, access to healthcare has been severely impacted.