TV series
Crime journalist Raphael Rowe goes behind the bars of some of the world’s most notorious and toughest prisons. Immersing himself in maximum security facilities around the world to live as a prisoner, he encounters the inmates locked up for their crimes and meets the men and women on the right side of law tasked with keeping the criminals behind bars.
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Checked Jul 22, 2026
Inside the World's Toughest Prisons is available to stream on Netflix in United States. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
Crime journalist Raphael Rowe goes behind the bars of some of the world’s most notorious and toughest prisons. Immersing himself in maximum security facilities around the world to live as a prisoner, he encounters the inmates locked up for their crimes and meets the men and women on the right side of law tasked with keeping the criminals behind bars.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
At Finland's Kylmäkoski prison, Raphael meets violent offenders in the general population wing and bonds with the inmates, while a newcomer is attacked.
Where to watch Inside the World's Toughest Prisons
Episode 2
Surrounded by many inmates who struggle with crystal meth addiction, Raphael enters the Pilsen prison and discovers that some habits are hard to break.
Where to watch Inside the World's Toughest Prisons
Episode 3
Raphael gets a rare look inside Bangli prison, where drug offenders are forced to join a rehabilitation program and isolation is used as punishment.
Where to watch Inside the World's Toughest Prisons
Episode 4
At the Rove maximum security prison, many of the inmates serve time for sexual offenses while navigating grim conditions and extremely limited resources.
Where to watch Inside the World's Toughest PrisonsEpisode information updated Jul 24, 2026
Paul ConnollyHimself
Raphael RoweHimself
5United Kingdom
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