Christmas Amnesty Frees Hundreds of Prisoners Across Germany

Rhineland-Palatinate and Berlin release inmates early to aid reintegration during the festive season.

Rhineland-Palatinate's Christmas amnesty led to the early release of 11 prisoners from Frankenthal prison, with more expected from other states.
Berlin's early release program will see 97 inmates freed, a slight decrease from previous years, with final numbers to be confirmed in early 2025.
The amnesty aims to support inmates' reintegration by allowing them to spend the holidays with family and begin job and housing searches.
Eligibility for early release includes good behavior, short sentences, and assurance of housing upon release.
Bavaria remains the only German state not participating in the Christmas amnesty tradition.