Meerpersoonscelgebruik in Nederland: Knelpunten vanuit juridisch en sociaalwetenschappelijk ­perspectief

The Dutch policy of cell sharing in prisons brings about various problems: first, it is difficult to establish whether people are fit to share a cell. Second, the process of matching cellmates is burdensome. Third, there are safety risks associated with cell sharing. Fourth, refusal of placement in a double cell raises practical and ethical dilemmas. Fifth, cell sharing poses challenges to reward and punishment practices. Finally, there are problems associated with capacity and facilities. An analysis of different sources shows that careful decision-making by staff is at least as important for ensuring safety than the legal guidelines.