Hotel-Like Prisons in Scandinavia and Beyond: A Comparison with New Zealand’s Milton Hilton

In recent years, a prominent trend in prison design has been to create facilities that resemble comfortable hotels. This approach, often referred to as the ‘hotel-like prison’, has been adopted in several countries around the world, with Scandinavia leading the way. While some may still consider these prisons to be under the same standards as those in their home countries, innovation in prison design and facilities has been demonstrated to reduce recidivism and improve the overall well-being of incarcerated individuals. This article delves into the concept of hotel-like prisons, specifically focusing on their prevalence in Scandinavia and comparing them to the Milton Hilton prison in New Zealand.

The Scandinavian Approach to Prison Reform

Scandinavia is renowned for its progressive and rehabilitative approach to criminal justice. Norway, in particular, is known for its advanced prison system. Facilities such as Halden Prison are designed to resemble a comfortable living environment, complete with private rooms, access to education, and recreational activities. The aim is to treat inmates with dignity and prepare them for life after incarceration. Similarly, Sweden and Denmark emphasize rehabilitation, offering inmates access to education, vocational training, and meaningful work opportunities.

For instance, Halden Prison in Norway boasts features like individual accommodation, a learning center, and a wellness center. “The focus is on treating inmates with dignity and preparing them for life after incarceration.” This is a stark contrast to more traditional, punitive models that may neglect the rehabilitation and reintegration needs of inmates.

The Milton Hilton: A Case Study in New Zealand

While Scandinavian prisons may have garnered significant attention, the prison system of New Zealand is also making waves with its innovative design. The Milton Hilton, located just outside Dunedin, has been likened to a hotel due to its amenities and comfort. According to a Singaporean website, the prison is on par with high-end hotels, as inmates enjoy features like underfloor heating, a gym, and a library.

Each cell at the Milton Hilton includes comfortable beds and desks, similar to those found in some modern prisons in New Zealand. However, it is important to note that these features are standard and not unique to the Milton Hilton. Acting prison director Mike Howson clarified that the opulence is not exceptional when compared to other prisons. He stated, “The cells at OCF include the same bedding as other prisons and the desks and storage facilities are the same as those used in New Zealand prisons built at around the same time.”

Educational Opportunities and Rehabilitation

Both the Milton Hilton and Scandinavian prisons emphasize educational and vocational opportunities to aid in the rehabilitation of inmates. These programs are crucial for helping prisoners reintegrate into society after release. At the Milton Hilton, inmates can participate in a range of educational programs, farm work, drama classes, and drug and alcohol therapy.

Howson echoed that these activities help prisoners “live crime-free on release from prison.” Similar initiatives in Scandinavian prisons, such as Halden Prison’s learning center and wellness programs, are designed to foster a sense of dignity and purpose among inmates. The underlying belief is that by treating prisoners with respect and providing them with meaningful activities, the recidivism rate can be significantly reduced.

Challenging Traditional Views of Punishment

It is often argued that traditional, punitive approaches to imprisonment are ineffective. “Just making people hurt because they committed a crime is a very poor way of encouraging them not to do it again,” as stated by Howson. The focus on rehabilitation and human dignity is seen as a more effective strategy. By addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and providing inmates with the tools they need to succeed, the prison system can create a more positive impact on society.

Thus, the design of prisons like the Milton Hilton and those in Scandinavia are not merely about providing comfort, but about fostering a rehabilitation process that is grounded in respect and understanding. These innovative designs challenge traditional views of punishment and highlight the importance of creating environments that promote personal growth and societal reintegration.

Keywords: hotel-like prisons, Scandinavian prisons, Milton Hilton