The Dutch authorities have announced a shortage of space in prisons and police detention centers, making it necessary to release detainees three days earlier than scheduled.
The State Secretary for Justice and Security, Ingrid van Engelshoven, acknowledged that this decision is a forced measure. She stated that while the authorities are not pleased with shortening detention periods, it is the only way to accommodate new convicts and suspects.
The government attributes the situation to an increase in prisoners serving longer sentences, a rise in detainees with mental health issues, and more young offenders. Planned renovations in penitentiary facilities have further exacerbated the problem. In the long term, Dutch officials anticipate that the number of days for early release may have to increase.
As potential solutions, the government is considering reopening previously closed prisons and renting space in other countries, such as Estonia. Estonia, which boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the European Union, is open to such cooperation. With half of its prison cells currently unoccupied, hosting foreign prisoners could bring up to 30 million euros annually to the Estonian budget.
At the end of September, reports indicated that the Netherlands was actively exploring the option of renting prison facilities in Estonia.
