NCJ Number
131807
Date Published
1991
Length
31 pages
Annotation
The prison system and correctional philosophy of The Netherlands are described with emphasis on the current conditions in a typical prison.
Abstract
The Dutch prison system has a longstanding reputation of being progressive, moderate, and humane, although some of this reputation has been based on fiction and hearsay. However, security measures have increased and resources for rehabilitative programs have decreased in recent years. Although most prison sentences are for short periods, the use of pretrial detention and longer terms is increasing. The system operates on the principles of minimal restrictions, rehabilitation, the central role of community life within the institution, the use of different types of institutions for different types of prisoners, and centralized management. Actual practice departs from these principles in many ways, due to space limitations, resource cuts, and hardening attitudes toward offenders. The Breda Remand Prison is used for pretrial detention, short and medium sentences, and fine defaulters. Renovations have improved security and facility conditions. The staff emphasizes humane treatment, and inmates have access to a broad range of activities. Inmate-staff relations are generally positive, and many problems are solved informally. Figure, tables, notes, and 10 references