Sweden has signed an agreement with Estonia to rent up to 600 prison spaces in Tartu, sparking criticism and raising questions about oversight and prisoners' rights. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer emphasizes the similarities between Swedish and Estonian prison systems but acknowledges unresolved issues, including legal oversight and prisoners' rights to visits. The proposal requires a qualified majority in the Swedish parliament, with the Social Democrats yet to decide their stance.
Sweden's Controversial Prison Deal with Estonia: A Step Towards Privatization?
Sweden's Controversial Prison Deal with Estonia: A Step Towards Privatization?
Sweden has signed an agreement with Estonia to rent up to 600 prison spaces in Tartu. However, the proposal has faced criticism, and several questions remain unanswered.
The agreement would not have been possible without the similarities between Swedish and Estonian prison systems, Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer (M) stated after his visit to the Tartu prison.
At the same time, questions about oversight remain. Who, for example, is responsible for ensuring legal rights are upheld when Swedish authorities operate abroad?
– We are working on this now and will present a legislative proposal in the fall. It is clear that this is an important issue, as there is a strong mutual interest in ongoing oversight, says Strömmer.
If a Swedish prisoner feels mistreated by the staff, should they turn to Estonian authorities?
– That is one of the questions we will return to in the fall.
“Enormous Pressure”
The plans have been criticized from several quarters. Civil Rights Defenders argue that prisoners risk becoming even more isolated from their context, and representatives from Seko warn that this is a first step towards the privatization of Swedish prisons.
– I think the reaction was more mixed. I believe many also see that this is happening against a backdrop of enormous pressure in the Swedish prison system, says Strömmer.
But how will the right to leave and visits from relatives and lawyers be resolved?
– The starting point is that it should work the same way as in Sweden. It is an additional factor that it is in another country. But someone from Kiruna can be imprisoned in Ystad, so we are not unfamiliar with these types of issues.
Regarding the language issue, Strömmer points out that the Estonian staff is already accustomed to prisoners speaking languages other than Estonian. Additionally, there will be Swedish staff on site, he emphasizes.
Hopes for Digitalization
He also believes that digitalization, where Estonia is at the forefront, can help solve issues regarding both prisoners' contact with the outside world and their education.
Do you mean that digital solutions can replace real meetings?
– No, of course not entirely. But I think one can say that it will rather add value.
To pass the proposal, a qualified majority vote in the parliament is required, and the Social Democrats must also agree. The party has not decided yet, but it was recently announced that representatives plan to visit the prison in September.
– I respect that all parties must have their process, says Strömmer.