Estonia May Begin Leasing Out Prison Space

• 10.06.2026, 19:51

Belgium had expressed interest in such a lease.

The Estonian Parliament has approved a bill that allows prison space to be leased to other countries. This was reported by the ERR broadcasting company.

According to reporters, 52 lawmakers supported the initiative, while 35 opposed it.

According to the explanatory memorandum, the bill aims to create the possibility of enforcing sentences imposed by courts in foreign countries. It is expected that if the bill is passed, Estonia will be able to maintain the designated use of the Tartu Prison and ensure employment for prison staff.

In addition, the bill aims to reduce costs associated with empty prisons in Estonia. The government also hopes to ensure the sustainability of public finances through this measure.

In February, the publication Soir reported that Belgium was working on a project to lease prison space in Estonia, as well as in Albania and Kosovo, to detain migrant criminals due to the extreme overcrowding of the local prison system.