Third-degree (open prison) regime
1979–ongoing
Verified 21 May 2026 · Data dated 21 May 2026
Fresh · 8d ago
Spain's three-degree progression places long-term prisoners into 'third degree' open conditions allowing daily work or study outside the prison, returning at night. Originally legislated in 1979 (Ley Orgánica General Penitenciaria) and routinely used today.
Outcomes
Around 15-20% of the Spanish prison population is in third degree at any time. Reoffending rates for third-degree releases are substantially lower than for direct closed-conditions release.
Sources
Last verified 21 May 2026. This is editorial; we hand-curate this section. Spotted an error? Submit a correction.