Prisoner rates in international comparison

Abstract

Prison populations are growing in many parts of the world. In many countries this trend has been fuelled by the increasing number of arrests, a higher conviction rate and longer periods of incarcera tion. Sentencing practice has become stricter, reflecting a more severe legislative framework for sen tencing, and a more punitive political and social climate. Penal severity seems to be closely related to the extent of the welfare state, differences in income, public trust, political- and legal cultures.