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Prison population, regional and global estimates

Data are collected from national authorities through the annual United Nations Crime Trends Survey (UN-CTS). When necessary, additional data are derived from other available sources. Sources for national data are shown when hovering with the cursor over the data point and can be retrieved under “Bulk data download” on this page. Before publication, data are sent to UN Member States for their review. Regional and global estimates are produced by UNODC on the basis of available national data.

Notice about external resources

These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) of any of the products, services or opinions of the corporation or organization or individual. NIC bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content.