Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net (Goodwill) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Changes in the Company's goodwill balances
Beginning balance	$ 490,308	$ 490,296
Foreign currency translation	(112)	12
Ending balance	490,196	490,308
U.S. Corrections and Detention
Changes in the Company's goodwill balances
Beginning balance	170,376	170,376
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Ending balance	170,376	170,376
GEO Community Services
Changes in the Company's goodwill balances
Beginning balance	319,159	319,159
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Ending balance	319,159	319,159
International Services
Changes in the Company's goodwill balances
Beginning balance	773	761
Foreign currency translation	(112)	12
Ending balance	$ 661	$ 773