Italian Prisons: A Crisis of Overcrowding and Despair

Italy Faces Prison Crisis: Overcrowding and Suicides Surge. A new report from the Antigone Association reveals a grim reality within Italy's prison system. The report details a shocking 91 suicides last year, a direct consequence of severe overcrowding. With 62,445 inmates crammed into spaces designed for just over 51,000, the overpopulation rate has soared to a staggering 133%. "We've reached a point where the overcrowding in some institutions surpasses 200%," explains an Antigone representative. The association points to a significant decrease in prison capacity (900 spaces) alongside a 5,000-inmate increase, exacerbating the already dire conditions. The lack of rehabilitation programs and inadequate space contribute to the high suicide rate. The report calls for urgent action to address the crisis, focusing on improving prison conditions and implementing effective rehabilitation programs. The urgent need for reform is highlighted by the human cost of this crisis.