The Belgian government is seeking solutions for overcrowding in its prisons, including the possibility of transferring prisoners to foreign prisons. Kosovo is currently being considered as one of the options, following Denmark’s agreement with Kosovo to transfer 300 prisoners to a prison in Gjilan.
Belgian Minister of Justice, Annelies Verlinden, has been exploring various options, including the possibility of transferring prisoners to countries with larger prison capacities. Belgium is in discussions with Kosovo, as well as other countries, to determine the best solution for its prison overcrowding issue.
While specific details are still being reviewed, Kosovo has already entered into a similar agreement with Denmark, which involves transferring 300 Danish prisoners to Kosovo’s Gjilan prison to serve their sentences. The deal with Denmark is set to last for 10 years and will help Kosovo’s prison system manage additional capacity.
The idea of a similar agreement with Belgium is still under consideration, and the Belgian Ministry is examining the financial aspects, with an estimated cost of 202 million euros for the transfer of 300 prisoners over 10 years. However, the transfer process will not be possible until 2027, as the necessary prison facilities in Kosovo are still being upgraded to meet European standards.
If finalized, this agreement could strengthen Kosovo’s international relations and serve as a model for other European countries facing similar challenges in their prison systems.
