For many years, Roumieh Prison in Lebanon has been in the news, and for good reason. Like all other sectors, the prison system was affected by the 2019 financial crisis, harming both prisoners and facilities. Corruption, underfunding, mismanagement, judicial delays, and outdated infrastructure all jeopardize the safety and well-being of prisoners.
Roumieh Prison is the largest in Lebanon, housing approximately 4,000 inmates, despite being designed to hold only 1,200.
The COVID-19 pandemic and numerous prison riots have exacerbated the situation of a judicial system already facing challenges to its integrity and effectiveness. Today, Roumieh Prison has returned to the forefront with the new Syrian President, Ahmad al-Sharaa, calling for the release of Syrian detained during the Syrian war. By 2026, the government must restore public trust and resolve these issues, otherwise Lebanon will face a deeper prison crisis that could have serious repercussions for Lebanese society.
This collection of iconic photographs explores daily life inside Roumieh Prison.
Ramzi Haidar from Dar Al Mussawir
Towards freedom
Roumieh prison from the outside
Towards freedom
Prisoners sleeping in their cell
Towards freedom
Prisoners sharing their meal
Towards freedom
Prisoners cooking together
Towards freedom
Prisoners speaking to their loved ones
Towards freedom
Prisoners cleaning the kitchen
Towards freedom
Prisoners eating in their cell
Towards freedom
Prisoners walking inside the prison
Towards freedom
Prisoners packing the bread
Towards freedom
Prisoners talking inside the prison
Towards freedom
Prisoner sitting on the stairs
Towards freedom
Prisoners getting a hair cut