Italy's so-called "prison decree" causes dividing opinions

The Italian parliament's recent approval of the so-called "prison decree" has ignited a fiery political debate in the country.

Intending to address the long-standing issues within Italy's prison system, the decree promises an overall improvement in detention conditions, an increase in prison staff, and a simplified process for early release.

However, while some hail the decree as a much-needed reform, others argue that it falls short of addressing the root problems plaguing the system.

Proponents of the decree, particularly from the centre-right Forza Italia party, see it as a significant milestone in tackling prison overcrowding and the alarming rate of suicides among inmates.

Pietro Pittalis, a member of Forza Italia, emphasizes the urgency and significance of the decree: "Overcrowding and suicides committed in prison are serious problems that are being dealt with for the first time in 15 years, following a lack of progress by left-wing parties on this front. Rights protection and security are the main priorities addressed by this decree."

Supporters argue that for too long, the issue of prison reform has been ignored, with previous governments failing to make substantial progress. Despite the government’s optimism, the decree has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations and prison reform advocates.

NGO Antigone, known for its independent monitoring of detention facilities, has been particularly vocal in its scepticism. With Italy's prison overcrowding rate standing at a staggering 130% and 65 suicides recorded this year alone, Antigone argues that the new measures are insufficient to bring about meaningful change.

Michele Miravalle, who works for the observatory that carries out regular site visits of