Prisons are often seen as harsh and punitive, but some facilities have transformed the idea of incarceration. 

Across the globe, certain prisons are renowned for their humane conditions, focus on rehabilitation, and modern facilities. 

These institutions aim to prepare inmates for a better life after release rather than simply punish them. 

Recent news stories and global assessments have highlighted prisons that provide education, therapy, and vocational training while maintaining high security standards. 

This article explores 10 of the best prisons in the world to do time, examining what makes them stand out and why they have earned their reputations as progressive correctional facilities.

Whether you are curious about how some prisons provide a supportive environment for inmates or simply interested in the evolving philosophy of corrections, this article will provide insight into the best examples of humane incarceration worldwide.

10. FCI Morgantown, USA

FCI Morgantown is a federal correctional institution located in West Virginia, USA. 

This medium-security facility is known for its modern infrastructure and focus on inmate rehabilitation. 

According to various reports, including coverage by local media and federal releases, FCI Morgantown offers a range of educational programmes and vocational training designed to prepare inmates for life after release.

The prison features recreational areas, libraries, and computer labs that help inmates acquire new skills. 

Inmates have access to counselling and health services that address both physical and mental well-being. 

This balanced approach to punishment and rehabilitation makes FCI Morgantown a model for correctional facilities aiming to reduce recidivism. 

The institution also emphasises security while ensuring a humane environment, creating a space where inmates can work on self-improvement. 

As a result, FCI Morgantown is often cited as an example of a prison that effectively balances security with opportunities for personal growth.

9. Otago Corrections Facility, New Zealand

The Otago Corrections Facility in New Zealand is renowned for its progressive approach to incarceration. 

Located in a serene setting, this low-security prison offers a calm and supportive environment for inmates. 

New Zealand’s correctional system places a strong emphasis on rehabilitation, and Otago is no exception.

The facility offers educational programmes, vocational training, and various recreational activities. 

Inmates have access to counselling services and mental health support, which are crucial for their reintegration into society. 

Otago Corrections Facility is celebrated for its modern design that incorporates natural light and green spaces, which help reduce stress and encourage a sense of normalcy. 

The prison also works closely with community organisations to provide opportunities for inmates to participate in social and cultural activities. 

This supportive and constructive approach has made Otago a benchmark for effective rehabilitation in the correctional system, contributing to lower recidivism rates in New Zealand.

8. JVA Fuhlsbüttel Prison, Germany

JVA Fuhlsbüttel Prison, located in Hamburg, Germany, stands out for its strict yet progressive correctional practices. 

Known formally as Justizvollzugsanstalt Fuhlsbüttel, this medium-security prison is celebrated for its focus on rehabilitation through education and social reintegration. 

The prison emphasises treating inmates with dignity and providing them with the tools they need to reintegrate into society.

At JVA Fuhlsbüttel, inmates can participate in various training programmes, from vocational courses to language classes. 

The prison has modern facilities that promote a structured routine while also offering recreational activities. 

Emphasis is placed on mental health and counselling, ensuring that inmates receive the support they need. 

The innovative design and well-structured rehabilitation programmes contribute to a lower rate of reoffending, making it one of the best examples of a humane correctional institution in Europe.

7. HMP Addiewell, UK

HMP Addiewell is one of the UK’s notable prisons known for its focus on rehabilitation and education. 

This facility is designed to provide a safe environment for inmates while preparing them for eventual reintegration into society. 

At HMP Addiewell, inmates have access to diverse educational opportunities and vocational training. 

The prison has dedicated programmes to enhance skills in areas like technology, construction, and business. 

Regular workshops, counselling sessions, and mental health services are available, ensuring that inmates are supported holistically. 

The prison environment is structured yet encouraging, aiming to transform inmates into responsible citizens. 

HMP Addiewell is often cited as an example of a modern correctional facility that values rehabilitation over punishment, contributing to reduced recidivism rates and safer communities upon inmates’ release.

6. Aranjuez Prison, Spain

Aranjuez Prison in Spain is renowned for its progressive approach and focus on reform. 

Located near the Spanish capital, this medium-security facility has garnered attention in news reports, for its emphasis on rehabilitation rather than solely on punishment.

The prison offers extensive educational programmes and vocational training courses to its inmates. 

Inmates are encouraged to participate in activities that build new skills and foster personal development. 

Aranjuez Prison provides various recreational opportunities and mental health services, including counselling and therapy sessions, aimed at helping inmates deal with the challenges of incarceration. 

The facility’s modern design and commitment to reintegration have earned it praise as a model for humane corrections in Spain. 

By focusing on rehabilitation, Aranjuez Prison helps inmates prepare for a successful return to society, thereby reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

5. Halden Prison, Norway

Halden Prison is widely regarded as one of the world’s best prisons. 

Located in Norway, it is known for its humane conditions, state-of-the-art facilities, and focus on rehabilitation. 

International news outlets like the BBC and The Guardian have frequently cited Halden as an example of a modern correctional system that treats inmates with dignity.

Halden’s architecture is designed to reduce stress and promote a sense of normalcy. Inmates enjoy access to education, vocational training, and recreational activities. 

The prison offers extensive mental health support and personal counselling. 

Beautiful surroundings and thoughtfully designed spaces contribute to an atmosphere that encourages personal growth. 

The Norwegian approach emphasises transforming inmates through meaningful activities and preparation for reintegration into society. 

Halden Prison’s success in reducing recidivism and improving inmate well-being has set a global standard for humane incarceration.

4. Champ-Dollon Prison, Switzerland

Champ-Dollon Prison in Switzerland is known for its modern, innovative approach to corrections. 

Situated in a scenic location, this facility has garnered attention for its commitment to rehabilitation and the humane treatment of inmates. 

The prison focuses on preparing inmates for reintegration into society by providing a range of educational and vocational programmes. 

Inmates participate in classes that teach practical skills, from carpentry to computer literacy. 

The facility is designed to create a safe, structured environment that still allows for personal development and rehabilitation. 

Emphasis on mental health support and conflict resolution is central to its programmes. 

The modern architecture and emphasis on humane treatment set Champ-Dollon apart as one of the best prisons in the world, illustrating the Swiss commitment to progressive corrections.

3. Justice Center Leoben, Austria

Justice Center Leoben in Austria is another example of progressive prison design. 

Located in a peaceful environment, this correctional facility has a strong emphasis on rehabilitation and education. 

News sources have highlighted the country’s innovative approach to corrections, with Justice Center Leoben at the forefront.

The facility offers comprehensive educational opportunities, vocational training, and artistic programmes to help inmates develop new skills and prepare for reintegration. 

Its modern infrastructure is designed to encourage positive behaviour and reduce stress among inmates. 

Regular counselling and mental health services are provided to ensure holistic care. 

The facility’s focus on rehabilitation rather than mere punishment has contributed to improved inmate outcomes and lower recidivism rates. 

Justice Center Leoben stands as a model for humane incarceration and is widely regarded as one of the best prisons in Europe.

2. Sollentuna Prison, Sweden

Sollentuna Prison in Sweden is known for its modern architecture, efficient operations, and progressive rehabilitation programmes. 

This Swedish prison is often cited in international reports, and has won awards for how eco-friendly it is.  

Sollentuna offers a range of educational courses, from academic subjects to vocational training, aimed at preparing inmates for a successful return to society.

The prison incorporates innovative design features that promote safety and well-being. 

Inmates have access to extensive recreational facilities, libraries, and computer labs. 

Mental health support is prioritised, with regular counselling available to address personal issues. 

The Swedish approach focuses on restoration rather than punishment, ensuring that inmates can develop skills, learn new trades, and eventually reintegrate into society with a sense of dignity. 

Sollentuna Prison’s success in reducing reoffending rates makes it one of the top examples of progressive corrections in the world.

1. Bastoy Bay, Norway

Bastoy Bay, located on a remote Norwegian island, is often hailed as the world’s most humane prison. 

Bastoy Prison operates on a unique model that emphasises freedom, responsibility, and rehabilitation. 

According to The Guardian, Bastoy’s open conditions and scenic surroundings allow inmates to live almost as if they were in a normal community.

At Bastoy, inmates are given a high degree of autonomy. 

They have access to educational programmes, vocational training, and recreational activities that promote personal development. 

The prison’s natural environment, complete with gardens, outdoor sports facilities, and communal living spaces, helps to reduce stress and foster a sense of responsibility. 

The focus is on reintegration rather than punishment, with inmates encouraged to reflect on their actions and work towards self-improvement. 

Bastoy’s innovative approach has received international acclaim, setting a benchmark for correctional facilities worldwide. 

Its emphasis on dignity, rehabilitation, and human rights makes it a standout example of how incarceration can be managed more effectively.

Conclusion

That was 10 of the best prisons in the world to do time. 

The world of corrections is evolving, and these 10 prisons stand out as exemplary models of humane incarceration. 

From the modern facilities of FCI Morgantown in the USA to the innovative and open conditions at Bastoy Bay in Norway, these institutions have redefined what it means to ‘do time’.

While each of these prisons operates in different cultural and legal contexts, they share a common philosophy: that incarceration should be about rehabilitation as much as punishment. 

The approaches adopted by these prisons offer valuable lessons on how societies can transform the experience of incarceration. 

Ultimately, the future of corrections lies in a balance between security and human rights. 

By investing in modern, rehabilitative facilities, we can hope to reduce crime and create opportunities for former inmates to reintegrate successfully into society.