Prison Security

While prisons are often perceived as closed environments, they are increasingly exposed to the influence and activities of organised criminal groups operating across borders. 

Drug trafficking networks exploit vulnerabilities within custodial settings to continue coordinating criminal operations, misuse communication channels, exploit visits and employ technology-enabled smuggling methods, including drones. These activities pose significant challenges to institutional security, public safety and the integrity of prison services, while attempts to intimidate, bribe or threaten prison staff further undermine the safe and effective management of correctional environments.

Following the approval of the new EU Drugs Strategy and EU Action Plan against Drug Trafficking in December 2025, prisons have been explicitly recognised as a key component of both the health and security dimensions of European drug policy. Under Action 11, “Disrupt drug trafficking from and within prisons”, EuroPris has been mandated by the European Commission to lead a European initiative aimed at mapping existing challenges and identifying good practices to disrupt criminal activity and drug trafficking within prison settings. Delivering on this mandate requires stronger cooperation between prison administrations, EU institutions and agencies, and national law enforcement authorities, alongside improved intelligence-sharing and operational coordination.

Building on the foundations established by the first term of the Expert Group, found below under the Main Contributions section, this new term of the Prison Security Expert Group will focus on translating European priorities into practical action. Over its two-year mandate, the group will address vulnerabilities linked to organised crime, including the misuse of communication channels, corruption, intelligence gaps and connections with external criminal networks. It will also strengthen cooperation with relevant European partners, including Europol, Eurojust, the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), as well as EuroPris’s internal networks, such as the ICT in Prisons Network. Through the exchange of expertise, the identification of good practices and the development of practical guidance, the group will contribute to strengthening prison security and protecting public safety both inside and beyond prison walls.