In a world where the concept of incarceration varies greatly from one country to another, the search for ‘The Best Prison In The World’ becomes an intriguing exploration into the realm of correctional facilities.
This curated list of 12 exceptional prisons from around the globe showcases not only the diversity in their approaches to rehabilitation and punishment but also the remarkable innovations that some of these institutions have implemented.
1. Bastoy Prison, Norway
Situated on Bastoy Island in Oslofjord, this accommodates just over 100 inmates.
On the prison grounds, they indulge in luxuries such as tennis, horseback riding, fishing, and sunbathing.
Surrounded by tasteful cottages and verdant farms, the prisoners in this minimum-security facility could easily forget their incarceration.
2. HMP Addiewell, Scotland
As a designated learning prison, Her Majesty’s Prison Addiewell in southern Scotland dedicates 40 hours weekly to skill-building for its resident inmates.
With a strong emphasis on aiding inmates in transitioning back to civilian life meaningfully, Addiewell’s 700 prisoners are assured of expert guidance.
It is one of the top prisons globally, providing crucial support for inmates’ successful reintegration into society.
3. Otago Corrections Facility, New Zealand
Stringent security measures are in place, Otago ensures its inmates have comfortable living spaces, emphasizing transformative change through skill development.
Offering classes in light engineering, dairy farming, cooking, and more, Otago is dedicated to effective rehabilitation.
4. Justice Center Leoben, Austria
In Austria’s charming Justice Center, non-violent offenders enjoy cozy living quarters.
Each prisoner has a private cell with a bathroom and kitchenette, along with access to amenities like a television, fully-equipped gym, basketball court, and outdoor recreation area.
It’s quite a comfortable arrangement, to say the least.
5. Aranjuez Prison, Spain
In Spain’s Aranjuez Prison, a unique approach bridges the gap between incarcerated parents and their families.
innovative institution allows infant children to live their early years with their imprisoned parents.
Furnished with cribs, adorned with cheerful Disney characters on the walls, and complete with a dedicated play area, Aranjuez offers parents a chance to experience the joys of parenthood despite challenging circumstances.
It also provides a sense of normalcy for young children who are too innocent to understand the reality of their parent’s imprisonment.
6. Champ-Dollon Prison, Switzerland
In Champ-Dollon Prison, Switzerland, a remarkable transformation has taken place.
notorious for overcrowding, the newly renovated residences now offer spacious triple-occupancy cells, each with an attached bathroom.
These ample facilities have transformed the prison environment, making the inmates feel less like prisoners and more like university dorm mates.
Together, they work towards rehabilitation, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and support.
7. JVA Fuhlsbuettel Prison, Germany
JVA Fuhlsbuettel Prison in Germany offers a unique and comfortable living experience for its long-serving inmates.
The spacious cells are equipped with beds, a couch, and private shower and toilet facilities, allowing plenty of natural light to brighten the space.
In addition to these amenities, prisoners have access to laundry machines and can use a conference room and a recreation area.
This prison prioritizes the well-being and comfort of its residents, fostering a positive environment that promotes rehabilitation and personal growth.
8.Sollentuna Prison, Sweden
Sollentuna Prison in Sweden offers a unique and humane approach to incarceration.
In this facility, inmates reside in private cells furnished with comfortable beds and attached bathrooms, ensuring a sense of personal space and privacy.
In addition to these amenities, prisoners have access to a state-of-the-art gym, an open-for-use kitchen, and a spacious recreation room equipped with a TV and a comfortable couch.
This focus on comfort and well-being contributes to a positive atmosphere, fostering rehabilitation and personal development among the inmates.
9. Halden Prison, Norway
Halden Prison in Norway stands out as one of the most humane prisons globally, and for good reason.
Nestled amidst lush greenery and abundant natural light, it offers inmates comfortable living spaces that prioritize privacy.
The facility provides skill-building classes, a recreational room stocked with TV shows, movies, and video games, a fully equipped gym, and even a functioning musical recording facility.
For long-serving inmates, Halden Prison becomes a dream environment, fostering rehabilitation and personal growth.
10. Cebu Prison, Philippines
Cebu Prison in the Philippines, though not as luxurious as some others mentioned, excels in promoting inmate recreation and creativity.
Here, inmates enthusiastically engage in singing and dancing to various musical numbers.
Notably, these prisoners not only perform for civilian audiences but also graciously sign autographs, showcasing their talent and fostering a positive environment within the facility.
11. San Pedro Prison, Bolivia
nique among luxurious prisons, but San Pedro deserves its place on this list due to its unparalleled in-prison community setup.
Here, self-appointed leaders govern entire neighborhoods, complete with homes, families,businesses, and cafes, creating a distinctive environment within the confines of the facility.
12. Pondok Bambu Prison, Indonesia
Pondok Bambu Prison in Indonesia, although rooted in corruption, offers a surprisingly luxurious lifestyle.
This women’s facility is decked out with amenities ranging from air-conditioners and refrigerators to karaoke machines and nail salons.
Within its complex adorned with gardens and sculptures, inmates enjoy beauty treatments and recreational classes, ensuring undeniable comfort.
