The International Prison Observatory (OIP) has raised serious concerns about the treatment of adolescents in French prisons, arguing that detaining minors is "incompatible with childhood." As of August 31, 817 young people—both boys and girls—were held in French prisons, making up 0.9% of the overall prison population. In some areas, the facilities meant for minors are operating at or beyond their maximum capacity. For example, detention centers in Limoges and Pau were completely full, while the Marseille penitentiary center was operating at 144.4% capacity. These overcrowded conditions have sparked criticism from human rights organizations and experts. Minors in France are held in 41 juvenile quarters (QM) and six juvenile penitentiary establishments (EPM), which were created in 2002 and opened in 2007. These facilities were designed to provide more educational support and a less prison-like environment. However, the OIP has noted that nearly twenty years after their creation, the EPMs have taken on the characteristics of traditional prisons. Julien Fischmeister of the OIP called for an end to the incarceration of children and adolescents as a form of punishment. He described the current conditions in juvenile quarters as "catastrophic and totally counterproductive," based on the daily experiences of professionals working in the system. Pauline Petitot, an investigator with the OIP, emphasized that the prison experience is "particularly violent for the majority of adolescents." The EPMs, which were intended to be more humane, were quickly transformed with prison-like features such as bars, fences, and opaque panels. These elements, combined with regular intrusive searches—often involving nudity—create a harsh environment. Such practices are especially problematic for adolescents, who are at a critical stage in developing their sense of self and body image. Between 2016 and 2021, the recidivism rate among minors fluctuated between 63% and 69%, according to Odile Macchi. She noted that these high rates are influenced by multiple factors, including the negative impact of incarceration. She also pointed out that release plans often lack proper preparation, making it difficult for young people to reintegrate into society through education or employment. In prison, access to educational classes is not guaranteed, and the time allocated for schooling is less than what is available outside of detention, and even that time is frequently not respected.