Proposes sending prisoners abroad

Icelandic authorities should consider the option of transferring prisoners to other countries in order to ease the strain on overcrowded prisons in Iceland.

This suggestion comes from a column by journalist Sigurður Már Jónsson, titled Taxpayers and Prison Affairs.

Jónsson notes that Switzerland and Iceland face similar challenges to countries like Norway and Denmark, both of which have already rented prison space abroad.

While Iceland has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries, its prisons are still operating near full capacity.

For example, Norway sent 650 prisoners to the Netherlands between 2015 and 2018. Denmark plans to house 300 prisoners in Kosovo and has also discussed arrangements with Lithuania and Romania.

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Several EU member states have likewise considered sending prisoners — particularly foreign nationals — to Estonia or Albania.

Number of foreign prisoners has doubled

Jónsson also points out that Icelandic prisons are reaching a breaking point.

The proportion of foreign prisoners has doubled in just a few years, while the state’s operating costs for the prison system are projected to exceed six billion ISK next year, according to the draft budget bill.

He warns that unless action is taken, costs will continue to rise — with taxpayers ultimately bearing the burden.