On April 28, 2025, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin announced a controversial proposal to require prisoners to contribute to their incarceration costs, which are estimated at nearly 4 billion euros annually.

The proposal was introduced during a television interview, coinciding with a crackdown on criminal activities in prisons.

The proposal has faced widespread criticism, including from former Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti, who deemed it unrealistic and undesirable.

Exemptions will be made for indigent prisoners and those in pre-trial detention, who will not be subject to these charges.

If implemented, inmates could be expected to pay nearly 1,000 euros monthly, raising concerns about the financial burden on individuals already in vulnerable situations.

With around 82,000 inmates in France, the proposed contribution could generate approximately 750 million euros annually, costing each inmate about 800 euros per month.

Darmanin's proposal is part of a larger effort to address perceived laxity within French prisons, aiming for a stricter penal policy.

To implement this change, Darmanin plans to support a bill in the National Assembly, with discussions on related proposals expected soon.

This initiative reflects a broader shift towards more conservative approaches in prison management, echoed by political figures like Marine Le Pen.

Funds collected from these contributions would be directed towards improving working conditions for prison staff, as emphasized by Darmanin in a recent letter.

Critics, including prisoner rights organizations, argue that high incarceration costs do not effectively reduce recidivism, with a significant percentage of inmates re-offending within five years.

However, critics argue that many inmates struggle financially, with only 30% having access to paid work, making it difficult for them to cover the proposed costs.