The reason for Netherlands’ empty prisons – DW

The Netherlands stands out as a country that has seen a significant decline in its prison population, with empty prisons being repurposed as hotels or cultural centers. A study by the Universities of Leiden and Portsmouth found that the number of people in Dutch prisons dropped from 94 to 51 per 100,000 citizens between 2005 and 2016. While this trend has stabilized in recent years, it remains low compared to global statistics.

This decrease in incarceration rates can be attributed to various factors, including a decrease in custodial sentences imposed by Dutch courts, falling crime rates, and reforms allowing state prosecutors to handle cases without involving judges. However, some researchers question the success story, pointing to issues like inefficient police investigations and the influence of the drugs mafia in the Netherlands.

While many countries are experiencing a surge in their prison populations, the Netherlands stands as a unique case of reducing imprisonment rates. Whether this decline is a true success story or a reflection of other systemic issues remains a topic of debate.