Greek prison system collapsing

An investigation by Associated Press has painted a grim picture of the state of the Greek prison system as the country continues to struggle with the effects of austerity:

'More than 30 men were crammed into the cell, locked up night and day for weeks or months. Without enough bunks, many slept on the floor. The windows were painted over, blocking out the sun, and the air was thick with cigarette smoke and the reek of the one toilet everyone shared.

'But what might come as the biggest surprise about this prison was its location: In Greece, squarely in Europe.'

The full report, on the Kathimerini news site, can be read here.

The Centre for Crime and Justice Studies is one of eight partner organisations - including a Greek partner - participating in a pan-European Union investigation into prison conditions across the EU. Called 'European Prison Observatory, the project is sharing better practice and promoting respect for human rights in prisons management across the European Union.

More information about European Prison Observatory is available here.