Background & Purpose
To improve public safety and reduce crime, the government identified a need for stricter consequences for those who repeatedly break the law or have ties to criminal gangs.
Proposals & Debate
The proposal includes making it a specific crime to escape from custody and ensuring that repeat offenses lead to longer prison sentences. It also suggests that people on probation or parole who are linked to criminal gangs can be restricted from visiting certain areas.
The Decision
The parliament decided to implement all proposed measures, meaning stricter rules for repeat offenders and gang-linked individuals will apply starting July 2, 2026.
Does this affect you?
- Repeat offenders: They will face harsher sentencing and stricter rules while serving their time or on parole.
- Individuals with gang ties: They may face movement restrictions, such as being banned from certain areas, and have a harder time getting prison leave.
- Crime victims: They gain increased protection through the new rules that allow authorities to restrict the movement of offenders near them.
In Practice
- Escaping from prison, remand centers, or detention centers is now a specific crime.
- Previous criminal history will carry more weight, leading to harsher punishments for repeat offenders.
- Probation can now be combined with prison time more frequently.
- People with gang ties can be banned from visiting specific areas to prevent further crime or protect victims.
- Gang involvement will be a key factor when authorities decide on granting prison leave (permission).