Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Around 75 prisoners at Ghent prison refused to return to their cells following a walk, escalating tensions within the facility and prompting concern.
This is their way of venting their frustration over issues with the prison’s TV stations. Someone has phoned the police.
Since the previous night, when television channels were interrupted after 10 p.m., the disturbance has persisted. In an overcrowded jail, one of the few entertainment options available to convicts is television.
According to the Prison Service, which described the background of the unrest, staff action forced the cancellation of visits to inmates earlier this week.
After the walk that morning, some seventy-five inmates refused to return to their cells. There was no outcome from the negotiations. As a result, police reinforcements were brought in to clear the prisoner-held courtyard.
“Due to that intervention, the visit this afternoon has been canceled. Food distribution is also difficult. Things are currently unsettled in the prison,”
confirmed the Prison Service spokesperson.
The challenging circumstances in prisons have long been a source of worry for the unions representing prison guards. The prison in Ghent is likewise overcrowded. The unions sent out a notice of strike for Ghent, Belgium, last week.
What impact does the loss of recreation have on mental health, and overall prison safety at Ghent?
Life in Ghent prison has largely come to a halt with group activities, sports, education, and recreational opportunities completely suspended since early 2024 due to overcrowding and staffing shortages. This leaves prisoners with little to no meaningful activity or mental stimulation.
Research shows that lack of recreation and prolonged idleness in prison cause increased stress, frustration, anger, and anxiety among inmates, who often feel trapped with “nothing to focus your mind on,” leading to mental health deterioration.
Without recreation, the risk of mental health crises and self-harm rises significantly, and prisoners may turn to substance abuse to cope with boredom and emotional distress.
