Prison Population in Switzerland Reaches Record High in 2026

Switzerland has recorded its highest-ever prison population at the beginning of 2026, according to newly released figures from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

As of January 31, 2026, a total of 7,119 people were being held in Swiss correctional facilities, marking the highest number since official records began. The sharp increase pushed the nationwide prison occupancy rate to 97%, raising concerns about pressure on the country’s detention system.

Among the inmates, around 63% were serving prison sentences or court-ordered measures, while 31% were being held in pretrial detention or for security-related reasons. The remaining 6% were imprisoned under other legal circumstances.

The latest data also revealed that the number of short-term unsuspended prison sentences has dropped to an all-time low, showing a shift in Switzerland’s criminal justice approach toward alternative penalties and legal measures.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, 111,962 adult criminal convictions were entered into the Swiss criminal record system last year. More than half of these convictions were related to road traffic violations.

Legal experts say the growing prison population may increase discussions about prison capacity, rehabilitation programs, and long-term criminal justice reforms in Switzerland.