Hidden Aspects of Sweden in Estonia
In a strategic move to address Sweden's overcrowded prisons and Estonia's underused capacity, the two countries have agreed to a prison rental agreement. This deal will see Sweden renting up to 400 cells in Estonia's Tartu prison, with potential expansion to house up to 600 of its inmates from fall 2026.
Sweden's Impact
Sweden, with just under 8,000 prisoners, faces increasing incarceration rates due to tougher sentencing policies aimed at tackling violent crime, including gang violence. The existing prison infrastructure is inadequate, leading to the need for additional space. The cost difference in housing criminals is a significant factor in the negotiations, with housing inmates in Estonia estimated to be about €3,000 per month cheaper per prisoner than in Sweden itself.
Estonia's Impact
Estonia, on the other hand, has experienced a significant decline in prison occupancy. With around half of its 3,000 prison places being vacant, the country stands to benefit from this arrangement. The deal will provide Estonia with a minimum annual income of €30.6 million, help maintain its modern prison infrastructure, and retain employment for prison and internal security staff.
Security Considerations
Estonia is coordinating closely with its Internal Security Service and Police to perform background checks on incoming Swedish inmates and to manage any security risks. The country excludes inmates with complex criminal histories or severe mental health issues. Despite unused capacities, Estonia’s staff and service capability may limit further renting agreements with other countries, making the current focus on Sweden’s prisoners essential.
A Win-Win Situation
The agreement is a strategic "win-win": Sweden alleviates overcrowded prisons and rising costs, while Estonia leverages unused capacity and secures funding and employment, all with careful security protocols in place to safeguard internal security for both nations.
The first transfers from Sweden to Tartu prison could take place in the fall of next year. Swedish prisoners will follow the same daily routine as other inmates and will occupy cells of the same size. They will communicate with Estonian prison staff in English. Swedish prisoners will not be granted outdoor exercise privileges and will not be released in Estonia.
This deal underscores the cooperative efforts between nations to address common challenges. Both Estonia and Sweden stand to benefit from this arrangement, creating a win-win situation, according to Kuuse, the Estonian Minister of Justice.
Other nations might consider similar agreements, given the success of Sweden's prison rental with Estonia, especially those facing similar issues of general-news topics like prison overcrowding and high costs. Moreover, Estonia could explore crime-and-justice policies with other countries, maximizing the utilization of its prison infrastructure while generating revenue and employment.
