Greek prisons suffer from severe overcrowding, poor infrastructure, and inadequate medical care, according to a damning 2022-23 report by the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture and Ill-Treatment.
The report highlights systemic failures, including a lack of coordination among prison officials and the absence of permanent medical staff. At 62% of prisons, no permanent doctor is available, while 52% rely on correctional officers for nursing duties. Half of prisons lack a psychologist or psychiatrist.
An inspection of Korydallos Prison found conditions “irreversible” without urgent action, citing severe overcrowding, unsanitary food, and inadequate medical access. Many inmates sleep on makeshift beds, and contagious diseases spread easily due to poor living conditions.
The report urges immediate reforms, including better oversight, increased medical staffing, and improved living conditions.