Inmates at Hall Prison are Paid to Play Video Games
Inmates at Hall Prison in Sweden can now earn money by participating in video gaming activities as part of their rehabilitation efforts.
At Sweden's Hall Prison, classified as the highest security facility in the country, a new form of employment has been introduced for inmates where they can earn a daily wage by playing video games, specifically FIFA. This initiative, which began in December 2025, is part of broader rehabilitative efforts to engage inmates in activities that they find enjoyable and relatable. The prison recognizes the importance of establishing good communication and rapport with inmates through these activities, which has proved beneficial in building trust.
Cecilia Brauer, a representative of the prison, emphasizes the initiative's focus on using familiar and rewarding activities to create positive dialogues with the inmates. The introduction of video gaming is seen as a way to not only provide entertainment but also as a therapeutic tool to promote social interaction among inmates. This method also allows inmates to engage with fellow prisoners in a structured yet informal setting, which may aid in their overall rehabilitation process.
Additionally, Hall Prison has procured three gaming consoles for the use of about 350 inmates, with a maximum of eight inmates allowed to participate in gaming sessions at a time. The time spent playing video games is counted as paid employment, highlighting a shift in how prisons can implement modern activities into rehabilitation programs. This innovative approach challenges traditional views on prison activities and raises questions about the role of leisure in rehabilitation and the potential benefits of such programs in reducing recidivism rates.