Prisoners In Finland Live In Open Prisons Where They Learn Tech Skills | On The Ground

Summary

Finland's open prison system redefines rehabilitation with a focus on education and technology. Inmates like Matti, serving life sentences, participate in university courses and vocational training, preparing for reintegration into society. With one of Europe's lowest recidivism rates, Finland emphasizes humane treatment and supportive environments over traditional punitive measures. Recent investments in innovative facilities and tech training highlight the country's commitment to reform. By fostering skills and providing opportunities, Finland sets a global standard for prison systems, contrasting sharply with the punitive approaches seen in the U.S.

Takeaways

• 😀 Finland has one of the most humane prison systems in the world, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
• 😀 Inmates in Finnish open prisons enjoy more freedom, including living in dormitories and using their own cars.
• 😀 The country's incarceration rate is among the lowest in Europe, with significant reductions since 1950.
• 😀 Only one in three former convicts in Finland returns to prison, compared to two out of three in the United States.
• 😀 Finland invests heavily in technology training and rehabilitation programs for inmates.
• 😀 A new, state-of-the-art women's prison is set to open, focusing on comfort and technology integration.
• 😀 The use of virtual reality is being tested to help inmates escape the drab environment of traditional prisons.
• 😀 Historical prisons in Finland serve as museums to illustrate the harsh conditions of past incarceration.
• 😀 Prisoners like Matti are able to pursue education and career opportunities while serving their sentences.
• 😀 Companies are engaging with inmates to provide feedback on educational programs, fostering real-world connections.

Q & A

What distinguishes Finland's prison system from those in other countries?

Finland's prison system is characterized by its humane approach, with open prisons, dormitory-style living, and rehabilitation programs that emphasize education and reintegration into society.

How does the incarceration rate in Finland compare to that in the United States?

Finland's incarceration rate is significantly lower, with only a quarter of what it was in 1950, and currently, there are fewer than 3,000 inmates in the Finnish system, compared to the U.S. which has a population of over 2.3 million incarcerated.

What role does technology play in Finland's prison reform?

Finland is investing in technology training and building smart prisons, incorporating VR technology to provide educational and rehabilitative experiences for inmates.

What is the purpose of promotional films by Finland's Criminal Sanctions Agency?

These films document how prisoners are eased back into society through work opportunities and counseling, highlighting the effectiveness of their rehabilitation programs.

What percentage of former convicts in Finland end up back in prison?

Only one in three former convicts in Finland recidivates, a stark contrast to the U.S. where two out of three individuals return to prison within two years of release.

How are new prison facilities in Finland designed to promote comfort?

New facilities include features like no bars, glass windows, internet access in every room, and design elements that enhance comfort for inmates.

What educational opportunities are available to inmates in Finland?

Inmates can pursue university degrees and vocational training, with some programs tailored to entrepreneurship and digital skills.

How does Matti's experience reflect the goals of Finland's prison system?

Matti's journey illustrates the focus on rehabilitation; he is working towards a tech career while still serving his sentence, demonstrating the effectiveness of educational programs.

What was the state of older prison facilities in Finland?

Older facilities, such as those built in the 19th century, were often in disrepair and modeled after punitive American styles, contrasting sharply with the modern, humane approach of current systems.

What initiative did Reaktor undertake involving inmates?

Reaktor, a digital agency, engaged Matti to provide feedback on their online education programs and is planning to introduce an entrepreneurship course based on his recommendations.