Sweden is considering sending convicted criminals to serve their sentences abroad as the number of inmates in the country continues to rise amid a crackdown on organized crime.
As reported by a government commission on January 29, authorities are already in talks with other countries about renting prison space, according to Reuters. Sweden’s Minister of Justice, Gunnar Strömmer, stated that in the face of an overburdened penitentiary system, new solutions must be explored, including cooperation with foreign partners.
Over the past two decades, gang-related crime has risen significantly, leading to an increase in fatal shootings. However, thanks to new measures—including expanded police powers and increased funding—Swedish law enforcement has managed to reduce the number of shootings and secure more convictions.
Nevertheless, these successes have resulted in an even greater influx of prisoners. In 2023, courts issued prison sentences totaling approximately 200,000 months—25% more than in 2022 and twice as much as in 2014. As a result, prisons have become overcrowded. According to projections, Sweden will need around 27,000 prison places by 2033, more than double the current capacity of 11,000.
