Italy Eyes Major Prison Reform to Combat Overcrowding

 

🇮🇹 In a bold move to address one of Europe’s most pressing incarceration issues, Italy’s Justice Ministry has announced plans to potentially release up to 10,000 inmates—roughly 15% of the country’s prison population—through alternative sentencing measures such as house arrest or probation.

The initiative targets prisoners whose convictions are final, with less than two years remaining on their sentences and no serious disciplinary infractions in the past year. Those convicted of serious crimes—including terrorism, organized crime, sexual violence, human trafficking, and kidnapping—will be excluded from the program.

Italy’s prisons currently operate at 122% capacity, making them among the most overcrowded in Europe. The situation has drawn increased scrutiny following a rise in inmate suicides and complaints about extreme summer heat in facilities lacking air conditioning.

A dedicated task force has been established to evaluate individual cases in collaboration with prison officials and parole judges. The group will meet weekly and is expected to report its progress by September.

This measured approach reflects a growing international trend toward criminal justice reform that balances public safety with human rights.