French Prisons on the Brink of Collapse: Government May Take Radical Step.

The French government is considering sending foreign prisoners to facilities in Eastern Europe

French authorities are planning to transfer some foreign inmates from overcrowded prisons in France to facilities in Eastern European countries. According to Figaro, about 20,000 individuals or a quarter of the foreign prison population are expected to be transferred.

The prison system in France has reached a dangerous level of overcrowding. Currently, with a maximum capacity of 62,000, over 83,000 inmates are being held. This creates serious difficulties and threatens compliance with detention standards.

As in the case of Denmark with Kosovo, the French prison administration is trying to find solutions to relieve their prisons. According to our sources, this transfer of detainees will only affect a portion of foreigners. This is 20,000 people, or a quarter of the total 'prison population', – writes Figaro.

The average occupancy of prisons in France as of December 1, 2024, was 129.5%, with some facilities exceeding 200%. This is twice as many people as stipulated by norms.

The French government plans to take into account Denmark's experience in addressing the issue of prison overpopulation by transferring inmates to other countries, but starting such a process, it is important to ensure appropriate conditions for prisoners in accordance with French standards.

Analysis

The situation of prison overcrowding in France has escalated to the point where the question of sending inmates to other countries arises. This indicates serious problems within the prison system that require urgent resolution.