Finland studies legal framework for renting prison space from abroad

A new Ministry of Justice report outlines the legal parameters for Finland to rent prison space abroad as a response to persistent overcrowding. It references the recent Sweden-Estonia agreement, under which prisoners have been transferred to Estonia since August 2026, and highlights the monthly cost of €8,500 for a rented cell. Minister Leena Meri emphasized the need to understand legislative changes required for rapid capacity expansion in emergencies.

The analysis flags constitutional concerns, including guaranteeing inmates' linguistic, family, educational and social rights, as well as maintaining proper supervision. It also mentions ongoing legislative reforms aimed at speeding up the deportation of foreign offenders and recent EU measures on the return of high-risk individuals.