The Finnish Prison System: An Overview
1. Prison System
The Finnish prison system consists of 27 prisons, with a total capacity of 4,210 beds. The annual admissions to these prisons were 8,874 persons in 1991, and the daily average population was 3,175 prisoners (male and female).
2. Administration
Total Prison Staff
The Finnish prison system employs a total of 2,608 persons, comprising:
- Managerial: 308
- Custodial: 1,624
- Treatment: 257
- Other: 419
These staff members undergo training, with the basic course lasting 13 months and including three months of on-the-job training.
3. Prison Conditions
Remissions
Prisoners in Finland are eligible for automatic parole after serving two-thirds of their sentence (one-half for first-time prisoners). This allows them to rejoin society earlier and reintegrate into their communities.
Work/Education
Life in Finnish prisons emphasizes the importance of work and education. Prisoners are required to engage in either activities that promote personal development, vocational skills, or academic pursuits.
Amenities/Privileges
Furloughs (leave) are granted relatively liberally, allowing prisoners to spend time outside of prison with their families and friends. The goal is to create an environment that resembles life in free society as much as possible, promoting rehabilitation and reintegration into society upon release.
4. Extradition and Treaties
Extradition Agreements
Finnish authorities have extradition agreements with several countries, including:
- Nordic countries
- Former USSR
- Poland
- Hungary
- Council of Europe
These agreements enable the transfer of prisoners from one country to another for prosecution or trial.
Refusal to Extradite
In certain circumstances, Finland may refuse to extradite a prisoner. This includes situations where:
- The person is a Finnish national
- The accused is suspected of a military or political offense (unless it’s related to homicide or attempted homicide with intent)
Additionally, extradition will not be allowed if there’s the danger that the accused will be persecuted on racial, national, religious, or political grounds.
The Finnish prison system prioritizes rehabilitation and reintegration into society. By providing access to education, work opportunities, and amenities like furloughs, Finnish prisons aim to create an environment that prepares prisoners for a successful return to free society.