Denmark's only women's prison is Jyderup Prison in West Zealand, which was inaugurated in 2021. (Archive photo). Photo: Niels Ahlmann Olesen/Ritzau Scanpix
Plans for a women’s prison in Jutland
SF and the Conservative Party in Denmark argue for a new women’s prison in Jutland, as part of their commitment in the multi-year agreement for the Prison and Probation Service. Despite a women-only facility in Jyderup, as of mid-August, 83 female inmates were detained elsewhere, with 30 on the waitlist for Jyderup’s 143 spots. Lawmakers cite protection from abuse and proximity to family as key reasons for a Jutland-based facility. A recent suggestion proposes integrating a women’s section into the upcoming Viborg prison. However, the Prison Officers’ Union opposes the plan, citing a disconnection from reality and a current shortfall in staff, with a drop from 2,700 officers in 2013 to 1,850.