• E4J University Module Series: Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

• Module 6: Prison Reform

• Introduction and learning outcomes

• Key issues

  • Topic 1: Introducing the aims of punishment, imprisonment and the concept of prison reform
  • Topic 2: Current trends, key challenges and human rights
  • Topic 3: Towards humane prisons and an appropriate resort to alternative sanctions
  • Summary
  • References

• Exercises

• Case studies

• Possible class structure  

• Core reading

• Advanced reading

• Student assessment

• Additional teaching tools

• Guidelines to develop a stand-alone course

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• First published in July 2019
  

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  This module is a resource for lecturers  

 

Summary

 

The Module commences with an examination of the main purposes of punishment and imprisonment, as well as a brief history of prison reform. Identifying prominent figures and organizations that have advocated for better standards in prison, the Module provides historical context for the more substantive analysis of contemporary trends and key issues with respect to imprisonment. Key issues include: rising prison populations and the problem of overcrowding; the challenges faced by individuals who live and work in prison; and the development of relevant international standards and norms (with primary reference to the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules) which were adopted by the General Assembly on 17 December 2015). Having examined the ways in which prisons can operate humanely - and in a manner consistent with international standards and norms - the Module closes by noting the importance of limiting the use of imprisonment through the use of non-custodial sanctions.

 

Next: References

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