Why are people awaiting trial held in prisons in some countries?

In the context of penology, it is important to clarify that pretrial detention is not a form of punishment, as the individuals held have not yet been convicted of a crime. Instead, pretrial detention serves as a procedural mechanism used by judicial authorities to manage the accused before their trial.12

Legal systems authorize the confinement of suspects awaiting trial primarily to ensure the integrity of the judicial process. Specific reasons for remanding a suspect to custody include:

• Preventing flight: Ensuring the suspect appears in court for their trial.2
• Protecting evidence: Preventing the suspect from tampering with evidence or interfering with the investigation.2
• Public safety: Preventing the suspect from committing further serious offenses while awaiting trial.2

While some jurisdictions allow for release on bail or recognizance to mitigate the impact on the accused, pretrial detainees often constitute a significant portion of the prison population globally. In some nations, these unconvicted individuals represent the majority of those held in custody.21