Prisons in Setúbal and Montijo face crisis

Prisons in Setúbal and Montijo are facing a severe crisis driven by staff shortages and overcrowding. In Setúbal, a prison guard strike lasting over six months has drastically reduced the time inmates spend outside their cells from 11 hours to just two hours daily.

The Setúbal facility, designed for 162 inmates, is currently housing more than 200. This overcrowding, combined with a national deficit of approximately 1,600 prison guards, is compromising security for staff, hygiene, and the ability to provide dignified treatment for inmates. The situation has also led to delays in medical care and difficulties in managing inmate visits.