Overcrowding in Macedonian prisons revives debate over amnesty

The number of prisoners in several correctional institutions in Macedonia has exceeded their capacity. This situation has once again brought into focus the expansion of alternative measures and the possibility of amnesty for certain categories of convicted persons.

Data published by “360 Degrees” show that the Idrizovo Correctional Institution holds 1,296 prisoners, while its capacity is 1,187 places. The prison in Štip houses 211 convicted persons despite having 139 places, while the institution in Prilep accommodates 134 people, although it has room for 108.

The director of the Idrizovo Correctional Institution, Zoran Jovanovski, says that the increase in the number of prisoners also raises the costs of accommodation, food, water and electricity. He announced that analyses on the potential impact of an amnesty would be submitted to the relevant authorities.

According to Jovanovski, a new amnesty for certain criminal offenses would help reduce the number of prisoners, but the decision rests with politicians, he told “360 Degrees.”

The broader implementation of alternative sanctions has also been mentioned as a possible long-term solution. These include probation, a measure that allows convicted persons to remain free under supervision while fulfilling the obligations set by the competent institutions.