French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has announced measures to address prison overcrowding by expelling foreign inmates to serve their sentences in their home countries.

With over 19,000 foreign prisoners making up nearly 25% of the prison population, Darmanin emphasized the need for bilateral agreements and streamlined procedures.

A new directive urges prosecutors to identify eligible inmates for expulsion, focusing on those with established identities and legal restrictions from re-entering France.

The initiative includes early release for deportation and cooperation with partner nations.

Critics warn of potential challenges, including human rights concerns and the risk of receiving French prisoners in return.