Around a third of the global prison population are pre-trial detainees, many held simply because they cannot afford bail or because alternatives are not available. This undermines fair trial rights and fuels prison overcrowding.
In many countries pre-trial detention continues to be imposed systematically on those suspected of a criminal offence without considering whether it is necessary or proportionate, or if less intrusive measures could be applied.
International law is clear: pre-trial detention should be the exception, not the rule. Alternatives such as bail, reporting requirements or electronic monitoring are more effective, less costly and help ease pressure on prisons.
Access to legal aid is a global issue. Without access to legal aid, people struggle to defend themselves—often facing pressure, violence or even torture to obtain confessions. Held in isolation from family and support, they are at heightened risk of abuse and ill-treatment.
PRI advocates for pre-trial detention to be used only in exceptional cases, for stronger access to legal aid, and for independent monitoring of detention facilities to prevent abuse.