As of February 2025, El Salvador had the highest prisoner rate worldwide, with over 1,600 prisoners per 100,000 of the national population. Cuba, Rwanda, Turkmenistan, and the United States, rounded out the top five countries with the highest rate of incarceration. Homicides in El Salvador Interestingly, El Salvador, which long had the highest global homicide rates, has dropped out of the top 20 after a high number of gang members have been incarcerated. A high number of the countries with the highest homicide rate are located in Latin America. Prisoners in the United StatesThe United States is home to the largest number of prisoners worldwide. More than 1.8 million people were incarcerated in the U.S. at the beginning of 2025. In China, the estimated prison population totaled 1.69 million people that year. Other nations had far fewer prisoners. The largest share of the U.S. prisoners in federal correctional facilities were of African-American origin. As of 2020, there were 345,500 black, non-Hispanic prisoners, compared to 327,300 white, non-Hispanic inmates. The U.S. states with the largest number of prisoners in 2022 were Texas, California, and Florida. Over 160,000 prisoners in state facilities were sentenced for rape or sexual assault, which was the most common cause of imprisonment. The second most common was murder, followed by aggravated or simple assault.

At the beginning of 2025, the United States had the highest number of incarcerated individuals worldwide, with around 1.8 million people in prison. China followed with around 100,000 fewer prisoners. Brazil followed in third. The incarceration problem in the U.S. The United States has an incredibly high number of incarcerated individuals. Therefore, the incarceration problem has become a widely contested issue, because it impacts disadvantaged people and minorities the most. Additionally, the prison system has become capitalized by outside corporations that fund prisons, but there is still a high cost to taxpayers. Furthermore, there has been an increase in the amount of private prisons that have been created. For-profit prison companies have come under scrutiny because of their lack of satisfactory staff and widespread lobbying. Violent offenses are the most common type of offense among prisoners in the U.S. Incarceration rates worldwide El Salvador had the highest rate of incarceration worldwide, at 1,659 prisoners per 100,000 residents as of February 2025. Cuba followed in second with 794 prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants. The incarceration rate is a better measure to use when comparing countries than the total prison populations, which will naturally have the most populous countries topping the list.

This dataset shows the number of people that are in prison by state in 2006 and 2007. These numbers are then compared to show the difference between the two years and a percentage of change is given as well. This data was brought to our attention by the Pew Charitable Trusts in their report titled, One in 100: Behind Bars in America 2008."" The main emphasis of the article emphasizes the point that in 2007 1 in every 100 Americans were in prison. To note: Many states have not completed their data verification process. Final published figures may differ slightly. The District of Columbia is not included. D.C. prisoners were transferred to federal custody in 2001

This dataset displays the inmate populations for all the Federal Prisons throughout the United States on 7.2.08. This weekly Population Report can be found on the Bureau of Prisons website at bop.gov. These facilities are positioned by their lat/lon and this dataset is updated on a weekly basis.

In 2022, about 1,826 Black men per 100,000 residents were imprisoned in the United States. This rate was much lower for Black women, at 64 per 100,000 residents. The overall imprisonment rate in 2022 stood at 355 per 100,000 Americans.

The Central American nation with the highest prison population rate was El Salvador, with over 1,000 prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Panama with 522 prisoners. The lowest prison population rate of the region was found in Guatemala, with 123 prisoners per 100,000 people.

Mexico had nearly 236,773 prisoners as of January 2024, around 3,500 prisoners more than the prior year. The volume of imprisoned people in the country followed an increasing trend from 2018 to 2024. Prison population That figure places Mexico among the countries with the largest number of prisoners in the world. However, when taking into account incarceration rates, that is, the number of prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants, Mexico falls out of the ranking and is, actually, one of the Latin American and Caribbean countries with the lowest rates, exceeded by far by countries like El Salvador and Cuba, which register four times the prison population rate of Mexico.People aged 30 to 39 years made up for the largest share of prisoners in Mexico. However, the share of people deprived of liberty whose age ranged from 18 to 29 years was significantly largest in the case of women, with 32.1 percent of female prisoners pertaining to such age group, while in the case of men it fell to 25.1 percent. Regarding female inmates, approximately a tenth have been pregnant while being in jail. Furthermore, theft was the most commonly committed crime by women in Mexican states' penitentiary centers in 2022, followed by kidnapping and homicide. Preventive prison The main reason for the rapid growth of prison population in Mexico in recent years is the 2019 reform of the article 19 of the Constitution, which has led to the spread of pretrial detention. Pretrial detention is a measure that leads to the imprisonment of people automatically while they are still being investigated, without having been sentenced, and can last up to two years. The reform allowed for automatic preventive imprisonment for a wider range of crimes than before, with the new list including fuel theft (huachicoleo) and burglary, among others. This affects particularly vulnerable people from poor backgrounds, with low education and who commit petty crimes. As of December 2020, 78.6 percent of pre-trial detainees for robbery in Mexico had not been sentenced, which means that less than a fourth of people in jail for robbery had been found guilty in court. The country had an even higher share of unsentenced prisoners for drug trafficking, with 87.8 percent of people being in preventive detention without charge.. One of the reasons behind the high share of prisoners awaiting sentence is the large number of simultaneous cases that public defenders have to attend to. Depending on the Mexican state in which someone is being prosecuted, a public defender can have up to an average of 336.9 simultaneous cases to defend.

Private Prison Service Market Outlook

The global private prison service market size was valued at approximately USD 8 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to reach USD 12.5 billion by 2032, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is driven by several factors, including increasing prison populations, government policies favoring privatization, and a focus on cost-efficiency and specialized services provided by private entities.

One of the primary growth factors of the private prison service market is the escalating prison population globally. Over the years, many countries have experienced a steady rise in incarceration rates due to stricter law enforcement policies and an increase in crime rates. This surge has led to overcrowded public prison facilities, prompting governments to seek alternatives to manage the burgeoning inmate numbers. Private prisons have emerged as a viable solution to this issue, providing additional capacity and thus driving market demand.

Another significant factor contributing to the growth of the private prison service market is the cost-efficiency and specialized services offered by private operators. Governments are increasingly outsourcing prison management to private entities to reduce operational costs and improve service quality. Private prisons often employ advanced technologies and management practices that lead to better resource utilization, enhanced security measures, and improved inmate rehabilitation programs. These factors make private prisons an attractive option for governments looking to manage prisons more effectively.

The increasing focus on rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates is also bolstering the private prison service market. Unlike traditional public prisons, many private facilities emphasize rehabilitation and education programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates. Private prison operators often provide comprehensive healthcare, vocational training, and educational programs tailored to the needs of inmates. These initiatives not only help in the personal development of inmates but also contribute to a safer society, which, in turn, drives the demand for private prison services.

From a regional perspective, North America holds the largest share in the global private prison service market, primarily driven by the United States, which has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world. Government policies favoring privatization and the presence of major private prison operators further strengthen the market in this region. However, other regions such as Asia Pacific and Europe are also showing significant potential due to increasing crime rates and shifting governmental policies towards privatization.

Service Type Analysis

The private prison service market is segmented by service type into security, rehabilitation, healthcare, education, and others. The security segment holds the largest market share due to its critical role in maintaining order and safety within prison facilities. Private prison operators invest heavily in advanced security technologies such as surveillance systems, biometric access controls, and perimeter security solutions. These investments ensure a secure environment for both inmates and staff, thereby making security services a pivotal component of the private prison market.

The rehabilitation segment is gaining traction as governments and private operators recognize the importance of reducing recidivism rates. Rehabilitation services include a range of programs such as behavioral therapy, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training designed to help inmates reintegrate into society. With growing awareness about the social and economic benefits of rehabilitation, this segment is expected to see substantial growth in the coming years.

Healthcare services are another critical component of private prison services. Inmates often have complex health needs that require specialized medical care. Private prison operators provide comprehensive healthcare services, including primary care, mental health services, and emergency medical treatment. The healthcare segment is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and mental health issues among the incarcerated population.

Educational services are also an essential part of the private prison service market. These services aim to equip inmates with the knowledge and skills needed to secure employment upon release. Educational programs range

The average for 2017 based on 19 countries was 250 prisoners per 100,000 people. The highest value was in El Salvador: 601 prisoners per 100,000 people and the lowest value was in Haiti: 81 prisoners per 100,000 people. The indicator is available from 2002 to 2017. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

On March 16th 2025, Trump's administration deported 238 alleged members of the Venezuela criminal gang Tren de Aragua to the Terrorism Confinement Center (or CECOT) prison in El Salvador. According to official data, the United States will pay around six million U.S. dollars to El Salvador to imprison around 300 deportees from the U.S. for one year. Crime in El Salvador Nayib Bukele is one of the most beloved world leaders, with an approval rate of 93 percent as of July 2024, being crowned with the highest in Latin America. This comes not without a reason, as El Salvador used to be constantly ranked as one of the most violent countries globally due to gang violence, specifically, La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Mara Barrio-18. After a particularly violent couple of days in March 2022, Bukele’s administration called for an Emergency state, with massive incarceration of alleged gang members. The Central American country now ranks with the lowest homicide rate in the region. One of the largest prisons in the world, not without controversy El Salvador ranks by far as the country with the highest incarceration rate in the world. As of February 2025, El Salvador's rate was 1,659 prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants, more than double when compared to Cuba – which ranks as the second place. The massive incarceration and the measures taken during the emergency state, various countries and international observers called out El Salvador for an approach lacking human rights. As the gang members were heavily mistreated and later on some of them, or their families, were charged 170 US dollars a month for food, clothing, and other services. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of such measures and with almost 90 percent of Salvadoreans feeling safer after the emergency state, Bukele secured a second office term in 2024 with more than 80 percent of the votes.

Smart Prison Management Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Smart Prison Management market size was valued at $2.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $7.8 billion by 2033, expanding at a robust CAGR of 12.8% during the forecast period of 2024–2033. The primary driver fueling this remarkable growth is the increasing adoption of advanced digital technologies and automation to enhance security, operational efficiency, and prisoner management within correctional facilities worldwide. As prison populations rise and security threats become more sophisticated, correctional institutions are rapidly turning to integrated smart solutions to modernize their infrastructure, streamline operations, and reduce the risks of escapes, contraband, and violence. The convergence of IoT, AI-powered surveillance, and cloud-based management platforms is transforming traditional prisons into intelligent ecosystems, supporting both public safety and cost-effective administration.

Regional Outlook

North America currently holds the largest share of the global smart prison management market, accounting for more than 38% of the total market value in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the region’s mature correctional infrastructure, high penetration of advanced security technologies, and proactive government initiatives aimed at prison reform and modernization. The United States, in particular, is leading the adoption curve with substantial investments in AI-driven surveillance, biometric access control, and real-time prisoner tracking systems. The regulatory landscape in North America strongly favors the deployment of smart prison technologies, with stringent policies on inmate safety and operational transparency. Additionally, the presence of leading technology vendors and system integrators accelerates innovation and deployment, ensuring that North American correctional facilities remain at the forefront of digital transformation.

Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region in the smart prison management market, forecasted to expand at a CAGR exceeding 15.2% between 2024 and 2033. The rapid growth is propelled by rising investments in prison infrastructure, increasing inmate populations, and government-led initiatives to enhance security and rehabilitation outcomes. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are witnessing a surge in smart prison projects, with a focus on deploying integrated video surveillance, automated access control, and cloud-based data management platforms. The region’s emphasis on digital transformation and public safety, coupled with the growing prevalence of public-private partnerships, is accelerating the adoption of smart prison solutions. Furthermore, Asia Pacific’s large and diverse population base creates unique challenges and opportunities for scalable, localized technology deployments.

In emerging economies across Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, the adoption of smart prison management solutions is gradually gaining momentum, although at a more measured pace due to budgetary constraints and infrastructure gaps. Challenges such as limited funding, legacy systems, and varying regulatory frameworks have slowed the transition to fully automated correctional environments. However, increasing incidences of prison overcrowding, security breaches, and human rights concerns are prompting governments to explore digital solutions for better facility management and prisoner oversight. International aid programs and collaborations with global technology providers are helping to bridge the gap, enabling localized implementation of scalable, cost-effective smart prison technologies tailored to the specific needs and policy environments of these regions.

Report Scope

Prison Perimeter Anti-Climb Upgrades Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Prison Perimeter Anti-Climb Upgrades market size was valued at $1.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.05 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 7.2% during 2024–2033. One of the major factors driving this robust growth is the increasing emphasis on prison security worldwide, fueled by rising incidences of escape attempts and evolving criminal tactics. Correctional authorities are investing heavily in advanced perimeter security solutions, such as anti-climb fencing, motion sensors, and innovative barrier systems, to fortify their facilities against unauthorized access and escape. The integration of smart technologies and materials further enhances the effectiveness of these systems, making them a critical component in the global effort to maintain public safety and institutional control.

Regional Outlook

North America currently holds the largest share in the Global Prison Perimeter Anti-Climb Upgrades market, accounting for approximately 38% of the total market value in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the mature correctional infrastructure in the United States and Canada, where stringent regulations and high-profile prison break incidents have prompted significant investments in perimeter security enhancements. Technological advancements, such as integrated surveillance and sensor-based anti-climb systems, are widely adopted across North American correctional facilities. Additionally, the presence of leading security solution providers and robust government funding for prison upgrades further bolster the region's market position. The continuous modernization of existing facilities and the construction of new correctional institutions are expected to sustain North America's leadership throughout the forecast period.

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to be the fastest-growing market, projected to register a CAGR of 9.5% from 2024 to 2033. This accelerated growth is driven by rapid urbanization, increasing prison populations, and rising concerns over security breaches in countries such as China, India, and Australia. Government initiatives to modernize correctional facilities and adopt international best practices have resulted in substantial investments in anti-climb upgrades. Furthermore, the region is witnessing a surge in public-private partnerships and foreign direct investments aimed at enhancing prison infrastructure. The adoption of advanced materials and smart perimeter technologies is expected to further propel market expansion, making Asia Pacific a focal point for future growth and innovation in the prison perimeter anti-climb upgrades sector.

Emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also experiencing increased demand for prison perimeter anti-climb upgrades, although market penetration remains comparatively lower due to budget constraints and infrastructural challenges. In these regions, governments are gradually recognizing the importance of advanced perimeter security to address rising crime rates and overcrowding in correctional facilities. However, adoption is often hindered by limited funding, a lack of standardized security protocols, and logistical complexities associated with retrofitting older prisons. Despite these challenges, international aid programs and collaborations with global security solution providers are helping to bridge the technology gap, creating new opportunities for market players willing to navigate the unique regulatory and operational landscapes of these emerging markets.

Report Scope

This statistic shows U.S. prison chaplains estimations of the percentage of inmates belonging to different organized faiths and religions as of 2011. Chaplains surveyed reported that on average **** percent of inmates were of protestant faiths.

Additional information on religion in United States prisons

The religious affiliation of inmates in the United States, the country with most prisoners per head globally, is reasonably similar to the religious affiliations of the society overall. That said, the proportion of non-religious inmates and those declining to express their religious affiliation is smaller than the overall proportion. In contrast the number of Muslim inmates is disproportionately large in comparison with wider society. As a result a sizable share of prison chaplains identity as Muslim, catering to the preferences of the Muslim prison population.

Following the September 11, 2001 World Trade Centre attacks and the subsequent War on Terror launched by George W. Bush, religious extremism has been a target of public debate and policy. The debate has stretched into prisons particularly with the United States prison on Guantanamo Bay holding a number of suspected terrorists related to religious extremism. In turn, fears have been raised that prisons have become a hotbed for religious extremism.

Critics have argued that religious extremism has provided an unwarranted justification for the conviction of Muslims. Regardless of the supposed reason for their imprisonment, this disproportionate number presents a problem for United States policy makers.

The U.S. inmate population compared to the 26 largest European inmate populations (years vary). This data was brought to our attention by the Pew Charitable Trusts in their report titled, One in 100: Behind Bars in America 2008. The main emphasis of the article emphasizes the point that in 2007 1 in every 100 Americans were in prison. To Note: Rates are for total number of residents, not just adults. Figures in this chart may not align with others due to differences in counting methods.

In 2019, ***** inmates escaped from state or federal prisons in the United States. This is a decrease from the previous year, when ***** prisoners escaped from facilities across the United States.

As of August 8, three executions were carried out by Alabama and two executions were carried out by Missouri in 2024. Another two executions were carried out in Oklahoma in the same year. Death penalty Since 2015, Texas has been the state most likely to perform the most executions in the United States. However, the U.S. government and military also enforce death penalties. Since 1976, 1,392 executions in the country have been conducted through lethal injection. The United States is one of the countries around the world still using capital punishment. It is estimated that China executed a thousand prisoners in 2022, while Iran executed approximately 314 people . Some 55 percent of U.S. citizens stated that they thought capital punishment was morally acceptable . About 35 percent of death penalty supporters reasoned that this form of punishment was “an eye for an eye” due to the crime, while 14 percent of supporters believed that the death penalty could save taxpayers money due to costs associated with prisons. In general, most states require some form of first-degree murder as the crime that is punishable by death. However, 40 percent of denouncers of the death penalty stated that it was wrong to take a life, while 17 percent reasoned that the persons may be wrongly convicted. Support for capital punishment reached a peak in 1991 at 76 percent of the population agreeing.

Turks and Caicos Islands saw a murder rate of ***** per 100,000 inhabitants, making it the most dangerous country for this kind of crime worldwide as of 2024. Interestingly, El Salvador, which long had the highest global homicide rates, has dropped out of the top 29 after a high number of gang members have been incarcerated. Meanwhile, Colima in Mexico was the most dangerous city for murders. Violent conflicts worldwide Notably, these figures do not include deaths that resulted from war or a violent conflict. While there is a persistent number of conflicts worldwide, resulting casualties are not considered murders. Partially due to this reason, homicide rates in Latin America are higher than those in Afghanistan or Syria. A different definition of murder in these circumstances could change the rate significantly in some countries. Causes of death Also, noteworthy is that murders are usually not random events. In the United States, the circumstances of murders are most commonly arguments, followed by narcotics incidents and robberies. Additionally, murders are not a leading cause of death. Heart diseases, strokes and cancer pose a greater threat to life than violent crime.

The map is based on Bureau of Justice Statistic (BJS) annual statistic on prison population. It was combined with the annual population estimates from Census to compute female prisoners per 100k population. The top 10 states with largest male prison population per 100k in 2004 are Delaware, Oklahoma, Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Montana, Arizona, Idaho, Missouri, Connecticut. Compared to top ten states for Male prisoners, which are all in south, the top 10 female prisoner states do not show geographic concentration. Data for Wash. DC is not reported, according to BJS, the "responsibility for felons was transferred to the Federal Bureau of Prisons". Only those female prisoners with one or more years of sentence are included. Source for parole data: Data source: BJS, National Prisoner Statistics data series (NPS-1) URL: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/data

Presents data from the National Inmate Survey (NIS), 2007, conducted in 146 State and Federal prisons between April and August 2007, with a sample of 23,398 inmates. The report and appendix tables provide a listing of State and Federal prisons ranked according to the incidence of prison rape, as required under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003. Facilities are listed by the prevalence and incidence of sexual victimization in each facility, as reported by inmates during a personal interview and based on activity since admission to the facility or in the 12 months prior to the interview. The report includes national-level and facility-level estimates of nonconsensual sexual acts, abusive sexual contacts, inmate-on-inmate and staff-on-inmate victimization, and level of coercion. It also includes estimates of the standard error for selected measures of sexual victimization. Data from jail inmates collected in the National Inmate Survey will be completed in January 2008, with a report ranking facilities expected in April 2008. National Inmate Survey (NIS) is part of the BJS National Prison Rape Statistics Program to gather mandated data on the incidence of prevalence of sexual assault in correctional facilities under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (P.L. 108-79). The Act requires a 10% sample of correctional facilities to be listed by incidence of sexual assault. Data are collected directly from inmates in a private setting using Audio Computer-Assisted Self Interview (ACASI) technology with a laptop touchscreen and an audio feed to maximize inmate confidentiality and minimize literacy issues. The sample includes approximately 150 state and federal prison facilities and 300 jail facilities, and between 80,000 to 90,000 individual inmate interviews. The first year of collection is to be completed by year end 2007. For more information on this data please go to: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/abstract/svsfpri07.htm

This dataset shows the total amount of State Prison Expenditures for Medical Care, Food expenses, and Utilities in the year 2001. Over a quarter of prison operating costs are for basic living expenses. Prisoner medical care, food service, utilities, and contract housing totaled $7.3 billion, or about 26% of State prison current operating expenses. Inmate medical care totaled $3.3 billion, or about 12% of operating expenditures. Supplies and services of government staff and full-time and part-time managed care and fee-for service providers averaged $2,625 per inmate, or $7.19 per day. By comparison, the average annual health care expenditure of U.S. residents, including all sources in FY 2001, was $4,370, or $11.97 per day. Factors beyond the scope of this report contributed to the variation in spending levels for prisoner medical care. Lacking economies of scale, some States had significantly higher than average medical costs for everyone, and some had higher proportions of inmates whose abuse of drugs or alcohol had led to disease. Also influencing variations in expenditures were staffing and funding of prisoner health care and distribution of specialized medical equipment for prisoner treatment. Food service in FY 2001 cost $1.2 billion, or approximately 4% of State prison operating expenditures. On average nationwide, State departments of correction spent $2.62 to feed inmates each day. Utility services for electricity, natural gas, heating oil, water, sewerage, trash removal, and telephone in State prisons totaled $996 million in FY 2001. Utilities accounted for about 3.5% of State prison operating expenditure. For more information see the url source of this dataset.